Organizing your Christmas Program

Christmas will be on us soon and it is not too early to get prepared. Whether you are using drama, music, adults, or children the more organized the less hair you will pull out in December!

Here are a few tips:
Create a flow chart of responsibility -- There can only be one director per event. Decide who that is. This person makes the final decisions about colors, volume or whatever.
-- Other positions include: Asst Director, Stage Manager, Music Director, Lighting Director, Set Designer, Publicity Chair, Costumer. As soon as possible arrange for people to fill these position. Spread the responsibility.
-- Create a practice schedule from now until performance. Go over it with the pastor, music leaders, SS Superintendent, etc to make sure there are no conflicts.
-- Set an expectation of completion date for ALL responsibilities. Let people know NOW when you expect props, set, costumes, memorized lines, memorized song movements, songs, etc. Leave nothing to chance. People are procrastinators. ALL elements should be ready at least one week before performance. Stop the last minute rush!
-- Talk up the program now to the church. This is an opportunity to evangelize. Some people never come to church unless it is a holiday. Take advantage of this.
-- Try to do the program more than one night. Some visitors may have conflicts with a single date. This opens up the opportunities.
-- Perform pieces for the congregation during the last couple of weeks. This builds excitement and anticipation.
-- Have an after-performance meet and greet. Nothing fancy, cookies and drinks. ESSENTIAL!

I highly recommend you get two books from my website. One is free and the other is only $10.00
The Director's Notebook - FREE!
You Want ME To Be In Charge? - $10.00
These will help you immensely. Go to http://www.christiandramaresources.com/