Activity 4-8

Activity 4-8: Perspectives Through a Dramatic Reading

Introduction

Distant Voices is a dramatic reading of the diary of Hiroaki Nishimura, written during his experience at the Tule Lake incarceration camp. To provide a more in-depth historical background, Danny Peak, the writer and director, also includes excerpts from newspaper articles, political speeches, congressional testimonies, and private letters. The piece is underscored throughout by music by pianist Julie Nishimura (Hiroaki's daughter) with musical selections from traditional Japanese folk songs as well as 20th century composers such as Gershwin, Copland, Dvorak, and Debussy.

Three readers tell the story: one reader represents the voice of Hiroaki, a second reader is the main narrator, and a third takes on various other voices. This abridged version of the original script should take about 30 minutes to recite.

Time

Two class periods

Materials

Handout 4-8a: Distant Voices Script (one copy for each student reader (3) and for each group of five students)
Handout 4-8b: Distant Voices Task Sheet (one copy per each group of five students)

Download printer-friendly (PDF) file of Activity 4-8 handouts

Download printer-friendly (PDF) file of lesson page and activity procedures

Procedure

1. Download and print the PDF file of Activity 4-8 handouts. Make copies as indicated above.

2. Inform students that they will be experiencing a dramatic reading of the diary of Hiroaki Nishimura. Hiroaki Nishimura is a kibei. Kibei refers to Japanese Americans who were born in the United States but educated in Japan.

3. Choose three students to read the Distant Voices script, contained in handout 4-8a.

4. After the reading, divide the rest of class into groups of five students. Each group should choose one of the tasks listed on handout 4-8b: Distant Voices Task Sheet. Allow groups about 30 minutes to work on the tasks.

5. Allow each group a few minutes to share its work with the class. Post student work in the classroom.

6. Assign Reading: The Question of Loyalty.