Transform timeless tales into original 10-minute plays.
Once Upon a Time- Story Drama
Once Upon a Time, ignite students’ imaginations with folktales and fairy tales. Inspired by their real-life attitudes and understandings, they learn to connect story and drama to perform a 10-minute play.
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 boosts literacy by turning reading and writing into active storytelling. Through drama, students build comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills in a fun, creative way.
Learning Outcomes
-
Students will explore characters, settings, and themes from folktales and fairy tales through improvisation and guided drama activities. (CA Theatre Standard: TH: Cr1.1.3–5, 6–8)
-
Students will collaboratively create and write a 10-minute play inspired by traditional stories and their interpretations. (CA Theatre Standard: TH: Cr2.1.3–5, 6–8)
-
Students will rehearse and perform their original plays, using voice, movement, and staging to bring their characters and stories to life. (CA Theatre Standard: TH:Pr4.1 & Pr5.1.3–5, 6–8)
-
Students will reflect on how stories and drama express personal and cultural values, identifying connections between traditional tales and their lives. (CA Theatre Standard: TH: Cn10.1.3–5, 6–8)
Why Partner with PEAK?

1
Social-Emotional Growth Through the Arts
Students develop social-emotional skills like empathy, self-awareness, and resilience through acting, writing, and directing—building confidence, communication, and leadership for success in school and life.
2
Tailored to Meet YOUR Needs!
Our programs are mobile and flexible—we bring the full experience directly to your school, community center, or organization. Whether it's a one-day workshop or a multi-week residency, we tailor the schedule and setting to fit your needs.
3
VAPA Aligned
Curriculum
California’s Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA) Standards emphasize critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving—all highly valued in the workforce. By engaging in VAPA-aligned projects, students develop artistically while acquiring real-world skills that they can confidently showcase on their resumes and in interviews.