CHILDREN AND DRAMATICS

Of particular interest to teachers, but also of value to parents and anyone who works with children, this is a most helpful discussion of the value and processes involved in dramatics for children. Dedicated mainly to the furthering of the child's sensitivity and creativity, Mr. Crosscup contends that rehearsals, rather than the brief performance often with an audience of adults oriented to Broadway and not the creative expression generated at the local public school--afford the opportunity to grow and develop. The author prefers a democratic method of casting, of choosing plays, of aiding characterizations, of ""mounting the play."" Unlike many books of this sort which touch upon the emotional and even spiritual aspect of acting, Mr. Crosscup offers specifies--methods of encouraging improvisation, suggestions for utililizing unusual methods of presentation (shadow plays, puppets, etc.); examples of the ""democratic"" direction at work.