Readers Theater

Purpose of the Activity

The goal of Readers Theater is to provide a fun, low-pressure, and engaging social outlet for residents. This activity promotes:
Social Connection: Residents work together as a team, building camaraderie and friendships.
Cognitive Engagement: Reading aloud, following cues, and interpreting characters stimulates the mind.
Self-Expression: Participants can explore their creative and dramatic side in a supportive environment.
Confidence Building: Performing for peers provides a wonderful sense of accomplishment and shared joy.
Laughter and Fun: A comedy script ensures the process is filled with laughter, which is a fantastic mood booster.

Materials Needed

Scripts: 12 copies of "The Bingo Rebellion" script.
Note: Print in a large, easy-to-read font (at least 14-point, Arial or Times New Roman). One copy for each of the 10 actors, one for the director (you!), and one extra.
Highlighters: Different colors to help actors mark their lines.
Chairs: 10 comfortable chairs for the actors.
Table: A long table to place in front of the actors for scripts and water.
Name Tents: Cardstock folded into tents with each character's name written clearly. (e.g., "Beatrice," "Gus," "Dottie").
Music Stands (Optional): Ten stands can be very helpful for holding scripts, freeing up actors' hands.
Microphones (Optional): If the performance space is large or some actors have soft voices.
Refreshments: Water for the actors during rehearsals and a small reception (cookies, punch) for after the final performance.
Simple Props (Optional): A bingo dauber, a pair of flashy reading glasses, a funny hat, a bag of chips.

Estimated Duration

Rehearsals: 3 sessions, 45-60 minutes each.
Final Performance: Approximately 15-20 minutes for the play, plus 5 minutes for introduction/bows.
Post-Show Reception: 30 minutes.

Ideal Group Size

Actors: 10 (as required by the script).
Audience: Can range from 10 to 50+, depending on your performance space.