Transform timeless tales into original 10-minute plays.
Once Upon a Time- Story Drama
We bring together folktales, fairy tales, and storytelling traditions from around the world—and invites students to shape them through their own experiences, heritage, and perspectives. By adapting these narratives into original 10-minute plays, participants connect story and drama to reflect who they are and where they come from.
Designed For: Expanded Learning Programs, Non-Profits, Libraries, Community Centers, Camps, In-School Residencies (Elementary, Middle)
"Only 36% of U.S. students in grades K–8 are reading at or above grade level in English Language Arts."
National Assessment of Educational Progress NAEP, 2022
Once Upon a Time – Story Drama transforms reading and writing into dynamic storytelling—bridging literacy with cultural identity, creativity, and voice.
Learning Outcomes
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Cultural Story Inquiry- Students examine characters, settings, and themes across diverse folktales—ranging from West African Anansi stories to Latinx legends—using improvisation and drama to uncover cultural meanings. (Aligns with CA Theatre Standards TH: Cr1.1.3–8)
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Collaborative Play Creation- Drawing from both traditional and personal narratives, students co-write original 10-minute scripts that reflect their cultural roots and creative interpretations.(Aligns with TH: Cr2.1.3–8)
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Performance with Purpose- Using voice, movement, and staging, students bring their stories to life—honoring cultural storytelling traditions such as call-and-response, narrative chant, or movement motifs.(Aligns with TH: Pr4.1 & Pr5.1.3–8)
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Cultural & Identity Reflection- Through guided discussions, participants reflect on how their plays express personal and cultural values, and connect to community experiences.(Aligns with TH: Cn10.1.3–8)
Success Story
"When I was teaching at St. John Chrysostom School, I got the pleasure of seeing the impact the PEAK Theatre Arts after school program had on our students. This program introduced theatre arts to our school. I witnessed some of my shy, more quiet students grow confident and use their voice on that stage and in the classroom as a result of this program. My students looked forward to going to PEAK Theatre Arts as they found it fun, made new friends, and were using their creativity. It brought me so much joy seeing my students motivated and committed, learning their lines for a play and working cooperatively with other students. PEAK Theatre Arts is an impactful program for students reinforcing skills such as confidence, perseverance, focus, collaboration and offering them another space to express themselves and increase trust in themselves and others. I highly recommend PEAK Theatre Arts."
Ms. Erika Jimenez, 2nd Grade Teacher & School Administrator
Our Valued Partners
Why Schools Partner with PEAK
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PROP 28 ELIBIBLE
PEAK Theatre Arts aligns with California's new arts education PROP 28 funding guidelines.
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Social-Emotional Growth Through the Arts
Reduce behavioral issues through social-emotional learning. Students develop relationship skills, self-awareness, and social awareness-- building confidence, communication, and leadership for success in school and life.
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Boost Attendance & Engagement
PEAK Theatre Arts culturally responsive student-led performances foster school pride and belonging. As excitement builds around performances, students stay engaged, families get involved and school culture thrives.
Tailored to Meet YOUR Needs!
Our programs are mobile and flexible—we bring the full experience directly to you! Whether it's a one-day workshop or a multi-week residency, we tailor the schedule and setting to fit your needs.
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Community Engagement
We come together to celebrate student voice, growth, and creativity through a culmination showcase. These showcases build bridges between school, home, and culture through the power of performance.
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VAPA Aligned
Curriculum
Students engaging in VAPA-aligned projects develop artistically while acquiring real-world skills they can confidently showcase on their resumes, college applications, and job interviews.
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