Black Women Playwrights
Teachers' Guide
Poof! deals with domestic violence. It contains some profanity, violence, and references to violence. Because of this, Poof! is a drama for mature students. It is not suitable for high school students without the context that teachers can provide. Teachers are encouraged to preview the play in advance.
With that in mind, high school and college level teachers will find many possibilities for instruction. Here are a few:
Bringing Poof! into the Classroom
- Play Synopsis
A synopsis of KET's adaptation of Poof! by Lynn Nottage. A successful viewing experience often depends on knowing what not to expect. Use this synopsis to let students know that most of the violence in Poof! precedes the story. Through dialogue between Loureen and Florence, we learn about the effect of domestic violence and the struggle to escape it. The synopsis also provides a basis of comparison between the playwright's script and KET's adaptation. - Introduction to Theater
Notes on the art of theater, American regional theater, and the relationship of theater and television. This site suggests ways to engage students through their own experiences with regional or school productions. Notes on theater and televison help students discuss and compare their experiences with both. - Serious Comedy: What Writers Can Do With Humor
Poof! is a contemporary play that uses humor to deal with a serious subject. Making people laugh is a great way to make a point, and playwrights have known that for at least 2,500 years. This section explores four examples from history and is a springboard for teacher or student research on the topic. - Artistic Choices
When Rosie Perez says, "Damn you to hell, Samuel," is she speaking literally or figuratively? What gives playwrights and actors the freedom to stretch the limits of theatrical convention through language, structure, hyperbole, symbolism, and dialect? How do the actors, director, playwright, and designers collaborate to make the play powerful? - Domestic Violence
The play as an illumination of its subject. How do the characters and action of Poof! help the audience understand the problem of domestic violence? - Educational Objectives
A suggested list of national and state objectives that apply to Poof!