Bespoke curriculum topic plays for schools

A topic play is a script we write specifically for your class, built around the facts and learning objectives of the topic you are teaching. Your pupils rehearse it with our directors and then perform it, whether that is for the class next door, in an assembly or to parents.

It works because rehearsal means repetition, and repetition helps children remember. When the key information is written into scenes with real characters, a plot and a bit of humour, pupils are happy to go over it again and again, because they want to do well in front of their friends. Learning the content stops feeling like hard work.

How it works

1. Tell us about the topic. We need to know what you are covering, which objectives the pupils need to meet and any facts that must be included.
2. Tell us who is involved. How many children will take part, how long should the play be and how much time is there for rehearsals?
3. We write the script. We find a story and setting for the information and make sure every child has their own part. The finished script covers what it needs to, but it is a proper play with characters, a plot and different dramatic styles, not a list of facts.
4. Rehearse and perform. Our directors run the rehearsals and stage the finished piece. We normally need three or four rehearsals, although we can adjust this to suit you.

Topic plays are different from the play projects in our workshop programme, which use our existing scripts. If you would like something written around your own pupils and scheme of work, a topic play is the one to choose. For bigger shows, see our school musicals and Year 6 leavers' productions.

Weighing up your options? Compare all our school productions or read our production planning FAQs.