Drama
From SPARK
A live drama is a presentation that tells a story or gives a message. Actors impersonate characters of stories. A pantomime (or mime) is a type of drama that has action but no dialogue.
It is wise to involve local people and get their advice. They will know the cultural use of different types of dramas. A culture may associate certain types of dramas with social activities that would not be appropriate for a Christian production.
Define the characteristics of the target audience and what will meet its felt needs. Would the fact that women are in a play make the message invalid?
Setting a goal with specific goals within it gives an evaluation tool. This tool can evaluate if the drama is effective and if the drama can be revised to have more effect.
Reconsider using drama if it
- makes Christianity seem like a foreign religion,
- encourages seeing Christianity as separate from one’s life,
- is unappealing especially to nonbelievers,
- encourages dependence on outsiders for new drama material, and
- stifles creativity because it’s usually impossible for the indigenous person to create in it.
It is important for the cast to understand the purpose and meaning of the drama. It helps them to convey the intended meaning to the audience. That understanding makes it more likely the audience will end up with the intended purpose of the drama.
Whenever drama is presented cross-culturally, watch that the original purpose will be conveyed.
Considerations
- How large a group will be able to hear the actors’ voices?
- Consider the expense and effort for a one-time production.
- Will the actors be available for a number of presentations at different times and places?
