How to Perform a Skit

A skit, known as a short drama, can be used for many purposes and in many different ways. It may or may not include humor or a message within. It can encompass all ages and backgrounds and can be performed for church, scouts, school or work. With a few helpful ideas, your skit can come off without a hitch and is sure to be productive and reach your intended audience.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine who your audience will be. Look at demographic information, culture and background. A work audience will be a lot different than a school setting. Make sure the script you choose fits the message you want to send.

2. Know the purpose of the skit. It could be advertising, witnessing, fun or skill development. This will enable you to do a better job and feel out the characters more.

3. Set the tone for the skit, and be sure to follow the script. Make any adjustments or changes to the script as needed to fit your audience.

4. Find out the purpose and theme for the skit. Get as many people involved as possible. If there are not enough parts, then have others help with props, costumes, lighting, sound or makeup.

5. Get adequate rehearsal time to ensure the best performance of your skit. Practice in all different situations, and no matter how large or small your audience or cast, get "off book" within a short time so you will know the lines no matter how nervous you are.

6. Ask for critique and even video-tape a rehearsal. Include at least two dress rehearsals complete with sound, lighting, microphones, props and any costumes so you are comfortable working with everything.

7. Know the lines of the other cast members, especially the ones that occur right before or after your lines.

Tips & Warnings

• Have the support of the group, club or organization that the skit is for or in connection with. This will make the production go off smoothly.
• Proper planning makes for a flawless performance. Be sure to rehearse often and well in advance of the production.
• Choose a cast that will suit the parts best. For example, do not select a script that requires males if you do not have a lot in your crew.
• If you do not feel comfortable with a part, be sure to tell the director or leader immediately. Perhaps she can switch you, or you can do backstage work instead.

[Walkaboutangel]

on 7/16/2008 And they are so much fun...

Angel