7 Steps to Build—or Renew—a Thriving Drama Program at Your Christian School

Marlene Dickinson
Oct 16
3 min read

Whether you’re a Music Teacher who’s never directed a play, a veteran Educator juggling multiple hats, or a seasoned Fine Arts Director looking to grow your program, the path to a thriving Drama department doesn’t require Broadway credentials or a bottomless budget. It just takes one step at a time—and a little prayerful vision.

At Faith Based Student Musicals, we believe every Christian school can and should cultivate a vibrant Performing Arts program. God has put artistic gifting in the hearts of many of our students. Educators can fan the flames by helping students discover and develop those gifts. The performing arts can immerse our communities in Biblical Truth through storytelling.

But how to begin, especially if Drama is nonexistent at your school?

Here’s a practical 7-step guide to help you go from zero to flourishing—no matter your starting point..

Two actresses, in all black clothing, hold hands onstage and smile at each other.

1. Start with Reader’s Theatre

Low-prep and easy to launch. Students read directly from scripts—no memorization or sets required. It’s a great way to introduce acting in Chapel, classroom devotions, or special events.

**Try one of our Straight Plays for a 10 to 20 minute Reader’s Theatre Experience!

A group of children pose energetically on stage, wearing dark shirts and jeans. Bright backdrop panels add color. Happy mood.

2. Join Your School Association’s Fine Arts Competition

Many Christian school networks offer Fine Arts Competitions and Festivals. These built-in events provide a deadline, structure, and clear guidelines—especially helpful if you’re new to Drama. It’s a low-cost way to build experience and excitement. Competing helps students take their preparation seriously and raises the bar for future performances.

**Click here to see our Festival/Competition materials!

3. Put on a Christmas Production

Christmas is the perfect opportunity to present a short scene, play or musical. Parents are eager to attend, students are excited, and the message of the Gospel is front and center. Don’t worry about grandeur—start with what you can manage, even if it’s only a scene performed during your school’s Christmas concert.

**Try FBSM’s One Act—CHRISTMAS IN ROOM 309

Three people in festive pajamas are performing on stage with a Christmas backdrop. Two are kneeling with hands raised; the center person looks surprised.

4. Add Drama to Chapel Year-Round

After Christmas, keep the momentum going. Introduce Drama in small doses during Chapel – maybe start once per quarter and build. A short, smart piece can reinforce your spiritual theme or serve as an opener for the Bible lesson. Drama has the power to “show” rather than “tell.” Over time, this consistency helps establish Drama as a regular, valued part of your school’s spiritual and creative life.

**Consider FBSM’s Sketches for this context!

5. Stage a Spring Showcase or Mini-Musical

Build on your momentum with a spring performance. This could be a one-act play or musical featuring multiple grade levels. Keep it simple—focus on growth, not grandeur.

Six students perform a musical theatre song together onstage. Colorful backdrop.

6. Empower Student Leaders and Parent Volunteers

As your program grows, involve students in tech, directing, mentoring, and production roles. Engage students from different grades, and create leadership opportunities for older students to mentor younger ones. All of this builds ownership and multiplies impact.

Strategically engage parent volunteers. Many parents had memorable, positive experiences with the arts during their school career, and now have no outlet for their drama gifting. Explore this pool prayerfully to find the right fit.

**Learn more here: “Making Prayerful Collaborative Choices from Within Your Christian Community and Beyond”

7. Map Out a Yearlong Plan

With a few years under your belt, it’s time to think strategically. Plan your year with clear performance slots: fall competition prep, Christmas show, spring musical, and possibly a Chapel rotation. Map out your goals and calendar early, so you’re not scrambling to piece things together.

A group of people holds hands in a circle, eyes closed, against twinkling lights on a dark backdrop. They wear festive red and green attire.

Don’t Wait to Feel “Ready”

You don’t need a full auditorium, a drama degree, or a giant cast to make a Kingdom impact. Start with what you have. Take the next step. Invite students into stories that shape their hearts and minds for Christ. And trust that God can grow something beautiful—even from the smallest of beginnings.

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”

— Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)