Directors’ FAQs

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The Jellybean Conspiracy cast ranges from 13-35 students and there are additional opportunities for a student assistant director and choreographer. In Act II, there are 4 lead roles and a special education student is cast in one of them. Usually performed at high schools, the Jellybean show has also had successful runs at middle schools and community youth theatres. Visit materials page to preview the script and Cast of Characters.

Is this a high school show?
Yes – also successful in middle schools and community youth theatres.
Is it a musical?
No. It’s a two-act performance piece with some music and dance.
Act One is an anthology of short pieces staged like reader’s theatre. Act Two is a 50 minute one act play.
How many in the cast? How many speaking roles?
13 – 35+ roles.
13+ speaking roles
How many special education students are typically included?
Any number—a typical ratio is one student from special education to five from regular classes.
How do you cast the special education participants?
Selected in consultation with special education staff.
What can you do to help the special education students succeed?
Create a buddy system.
Have the actor playing “Garth” serves as Tom’s on-stage acting coach.
Cast the special education students first so they have time to learn their lines prior to formal rehearsal.
Is it a good experience for the students from regular classes?
Theatre students love the experience of creating a supportive ensemble, where the main goal is helping the performers from special education succeed. They grow as artists and as human beings.
How long is the rehearsal process?
The same as for a traditional play, usually 4 to 6 weeks.
Special education students often receive additional coaching from teachers and parents.
How complicated is the tech?
As simple or as complex as the director chooses.
Some shows have been done on a bare stage with a set of boxes and a projection screen. Jellybean also has resources to help.
What kind of audience response does the show get?
Community support is often extraordinary—some shows totally sold out.

If you would like additional information about performing the Jellybean Show at your school or community theatre, please contact Jellybean’s Executive Producer, Dr. Howard Martin, at or Tel. 913 424-8384.

Jellybean Conspiracy
2201 West 50th Street
Westwood Hills, KS 66205

www.jellybeanconspiracy.org