Places of Performance

Focus on the architecture of performing arts facilities to create a replica of a theater.

• 1.

  Different styles of architecture can be observed in a building's formal elements, and each time period is unique. If possible, take an historic building tour in your community. Sketch different architectural elements you see with Crayola® Colored Pencils. Search for information about architectural style or history. Famous buildings are easy to research, such as the U.S. Capitol, which was built in the neo-classical style, to emulate the architecture of Rome. How do modern buildings differ from neo-classical architecture?

• 2.

  If you were building a theatre, such as Ford's Theater in Washington, D.C., what kind of architecture would you choose? Sketch your ideas in colored pencil. Include architectural elements that you like the best, including columns and facades, if you like the neo-classical style, or a more trim, angular construction if you prefer modern buildings.

• 3.

  On a plastic placemat or tray, sculpt Crayola Model Magic to portray your building in bas relief model (somewhat flat, with sculptural elements built on its surface) of your building. Bas relief was used to decorate the pediments (triangular areas under the roof peak) of ancient buildings such as the Parthenon. Dry.

• 4.

  Cover your work area with recycled newspaper. Color the bas relief model with Crayola Washable Paints and Paint Brushes.

• 5.

  Build a corrugated cardboard frame to display your sculpture. Cut two frames exactly alike with Crayola Scissors. Use Crayola School Glue to glue them together. Decorate one side of the frame with glue designs. Dry.

• 6.

  Decorate the other side with glue designs. Dry.

• 7.

  Paint both sides of your frame to compliment your architectural sculpture. Dry.

• 8.

  Use Model Magic to create feet for your frame. Form two slightly flattened balls, then press the frame into them. Dry.

• 9.

  Use toothpicks or bamboo skewers as pivots to fasten your sculpture into the frame. Push the toothpick partly into the sculpture at the bottom, center point, then apply a small dot of glue to the point of entry. Do the same to the top center point. Place

• 10.

  Stand up your bas relief model. For additional support, glue the Model Magic® feet to a horizontal piece of cardboard.

Benefits

• Students research architectural elements and technology in historic and contemporary periods.
• Children identify interior and exterior characteristics of performing arts facilities from various architectural periods.
• Children create a replica of a real or imagined theater based upon their research.

Adaptations

• What kinds of performances would occur at your theatre? Use Crayola Markers and Colored Pencils to create a playbill announcing the shows.
• For a group project, team up with the social studies department in your school, an architect, or history group. Research a specific period of history known for its architecture, such as Rome or Egypt. Create a community of buildings based upon your resear