Cheat Out: A Physical Theatre Curriculum for Beginners and Beyond

A Practical Blueprint for Theatre Educators at Any Stage

Cheat Out: A Physical Theatre Curriculum for Beginners and Beyond is a hands-on resource for anyone exploring how to teach theatre-from first-time instructors to seasoned educators. Actor and teacher Jeff McKinnon draws on decades of classroom and stage experience to offer a comprehensive curriculum that brings energy, structure, and creativity to the drama classroom.

This book offers a wide range of classroom-tested activities designed to engage students through games, movement, ensemble building, and creative risk-taking. McKinnon provides practical tools to help every student feel seen and supported-from improv ideas for drama class to puppetry in theatre. With sections on theatre props, voice work, and stagecraft lesson plans, educators will find adaptable strategies that suit a variety of teaching styles.

Whether you're developing full theatre lesson plans, looking for acting class ideas, or just need a fresh approach to daily warm-ups, Cheat Out will help you foster a collaborative, high-energy space where students can explore performance with confidence and curiosity.