Show off your actor's journal
Create and decorate an actor's journal to record character ideas, scripts, emotions, and rehearsal notes, then present selected entries in a mini performance.
Step-by-step guide to create and present an actor's journal
Step 1
Gather all your materials and put them on a clear workspace so you can see everything.
Step 2
Pick a notebook or make one by stacking paper and stapling the side.
Step 3
Write the title "My Actor's Journal" big and bold on the cover.
Step 4
Decorate the cover with colours stickers and patterns that show your acting personality.
Step 5
Open to the first page and write four section headings: Character Ideas Scripts Emotions Rehearsal Notes.
Step 6
In the Character Ideas section write three short character ideas with one sentence about each person.
Step 7
In the Scripts section paste or write one short script or monologue that you like.
Step 8
In the Emotions section draw faces for six emotions and label each one with a word and a short note about how the character feels.
Step 9
In the Rehearsal Notes section write three rehearsal goals and one tip for remembering lines.
Step 10
Choose two entries from your journal that you want to present in your mini performance.
Step 11
Practice each chosen entry aloud two or three times, focusing on voice and expression.
Step 12
Set up a small performance space with a clear front and arrange a few audience members like family or stuffed animals.
Step 13
Perform your selected entries for your audience, using the journal notes to help you.
Step 14
Share your finished actor's journal and a description of your mini performance on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use instead of a premade notebook or stickers if I don't have them?
If you don't have a premade notebook, follow step 2 and stack paper and staple the side (or use a folder or binder), and replace stickers with magazine cut-outs, photos, or drawings coloured with crayons or markers to decorate the cover.
My stapled journal is coming apart or pages slide out—how do I fix it?
If pages fall out after stapling in step 2, fold the paper stack tightly and staple twice along the side, reinforce the spine with tape, or use a binder clip so your Character Ideas, Scripts, Emotions, and Rehearsal Notes stay secure.
How can I adapt this actor's journal activity for different ages?
For younger children, simplify step 5 by drawing two or three emotions and using stickers for character ideas and for older kids, expand the Scripts section with a longer monologue, add detailed rehearsal goals in Rehearsal Notes, and rehearse more takes before the mini performance.
How can we enhance or personalize the mini performance and journal before sharing on DIY.org?
To enhance the activity, add photos, costume swatches, or prop sketches to the cover and pages, record a short video of your practiced entries in the performance space from step 12, and include a brief description of your rehearsal goals and tips when you post on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to create and present an actor's journal
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Facts about acting and drama for kids
🎭 The word "actor" comes from the Latin 'actor', which means 'doer' — perfect for kids who love taking action on stage!
📝 Samuel Pepys kept one of England's most famous diaries in the 1660s; historians still read his lively rehearsal-like notes today.
🎬 Many actors keep rehearsal journals to track character choices, emotions, and blocking — it's a common professional habit.
📖 Plays like The Diary of Anne Frank show how real journals can be adapted into powerful performances on stage.
⏱ School and community shows often rehearse for 1–3 weeks, while professional productions can rehearse for several weeks or more.
