Schools & Colleges
I AM MARK is an ideal resource for schools and colleges. Students invariably describe it as ‘intense’ and ‘fantastic’. It has an almost mesmerising effect on audiences of all ages – even, perhaps especially, on those who are unfamiliar with the Scriptures.
I AM MARK comes as a standalone performance, followed by an optional question and answer session with the students. Or as part of an RS lesson (or lessons) about Christianity or the gospels. A particular favourite are the drama workshops Stefan runs on biblical storytelling. Cross-use over different departments, such as Speech and Drama and English, could allow costs to be shared equally.
I AM MARK can be used in whole school assemblies or in smaller settings like Christian Unions, or both. It also offers imaginative possibilities for outreach. Because it is inspired Scripture as well as very entertaining, I AM MARK makes an ideal introduction to the Christian faith.
As Alastair Reid, the General Secretary of the Independent Schools Christian Alliance (TISCA), writes:
TISCA was delighted to have Stefan Smart make a presentation at our recent residential chaplains’ conference. Our chaplains were ‘blown away’ by such a compelling one-man dramatic rendition of parts of Mark’s gospel. Using only a chair as a prop (which filled in for a boat, a mountain top and a soap box), Stefan carefully and sensitively challenged us with his performance. His vocal expression was impressive and his faithful use of the exact words of Scripture helped us to ‘see’ Jesus interact with ordinary people, with the disciples and with the authorities during His time on earth. We could imagine a full-gospel presentation being used during an outreach, perhaps in conjunction with a school’s local community, or in portions (as we experienced) during a week-long series of assemblies or chapels – or even in conjunction with drama studies. We cannot commend Stefan and I AM MARK more highly.
With nearly 35 years’ experience as a Director of Student Learning and a teacher of English and Drama, Stefan is ideally placed to engage with young people just where they are. And so to bring this foundational story to life.
To make a ‘no obligations’ enquiry, get in touch via the form below.
Photos used with permission from Performing Arts Mission