Finding Their Voices at Tully Elementary
Readers’ Theatre, Drama, and the Joy of Storytelling
At Tully Elementary, reading doesn’t stop at the page. This fall, Altrusa volunteers have been working with third graders to bring stories to life through Readers’ Theatre — a blend of reading, acting, and expressive storytelling that helps students build confidence, comprehension, and joy in reading.
With scripts in hand and imaginations wide open, students explored familiar tales, new characters, and even a little melodrama along the way.
Readers’ Theatre Comes to Life
The third-grade Readers’ Theatre class began at the very basics: learning how to read aloud with expression, pace, and clarity. With guidance from Altrusans Elaine Wilder and Sheila Hugunin, students practiced projecting their voices, following a narrator, and listening closely to one another.
Early rehearsals focused on understanding the story and each role — from narrators to giants, animals, and unexpected characters that popped up as scripts evolved.
Learning to Act, Not Just Read
As the weeks progressed, reading turned into acting. Students experimented with movement, gestures, facial expressions, and tone. They learned what “melodrama” means and how exaggeration can make a story clearer and more entertaining for an audience.
Characters like Jack, giants, witches, cows, and other animals emerged, giving every student a chance to step into a role and try something new. Practicing scenes together helped students grow more comfortable reading aloud and performing in front of their classmates.
Working Together
This was a true team effort. Altrusans Marcia Lucas, Elaine Aldrete, Elda Lopez, Margaret Watson, Sheila Hugunin, Gail Dent, Elaine Wilder, Bonnie McPherson, and Ann Banwell all spent time working with the class. Volunteers practiced lines with students, encouraged expressive reading, and helped the group learn how to support one another as a cast.
The presence of caring adults and a shared goal helped students stay engaged and excited, even when learning something new felt challenging.
Books, Scripts, and Building Confidence
Along with hands-on instruction, Altrusa provided books and materials to support the class. These resources helped reinforce the connection between reading and performance, showing students that stories aren’t just something you read — they’re something you experience.
By the end of the sessions, students weren’t just better readers. They were more confident speakers, expressive storytellers, and enthusiastic participants in their own learning.
Results
Readers’ Theatre at Tully is one more example of how literacy can be active, creative, and joyful. Through acting, reading, and teamwork, these third graders are discovering that their voices matter — on the page and on the stage.
