So I am about to " boldly venture into unknown territory"  - the use of Ning to build characters.  The idea was brought to my attention by Dr. Jennifer Hartley, when I was in her Theatre versus Oppression workshops ( which were brilliant).  She talked about how she used Facebook with her actors to create characters and build connections.  It was bringing the tools of our students use in their everyday life to the classroom or in Jennifer's case to the actors studio.  I thought it would be a great idea.  Facebook is something I am a bit weary of in regards to students.  I wanted something I could control and monitor. 
I used the Facebook idea with my Grade 8 Drama class in building a character.  They are all familiar with FB and its structure.  I showed them an examplar and then asked them to create a "fake" facebook page either in their books or on a pages/word document on their computer.  It was a great exercise.  They ran with it and the results where fun and good at building their ideas about their character.

So I want I wanted to build on that with the Musical I am doing - BUGSY MALONE.  I have set up a ning and will get the students to join as their characters.  There is an opportunity to build a profile, add pictures and have conversations with other characters.  We will see how it goes.  If you would like to see how it is going click on this link  http://crankinblackbox.ning.com/
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