Under Pressure!

In-Person
Touring 24/25 & 25/26
Suggested for Grades 3-7 and Families

Created by David Epley, Seattle, WA and Commissioned by the Kennedy Center

“I’ve seen many shows at The Kennedy Center’s Family Theater, and this was the best one!” – Broadwayworld.com

“a fantastic experience, with educational content presented in a hilarious and exciting format” – DC Theater Arts

Be amazed by the power of pressure – and what it can teach us.

Equal parts interactive science, comedy, and personal empowerment messages, Doktor Kaboom returns with a new show. Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure! illustrates physical science concepts, which are also metaphors for real-life mental and emotional pressures.

Praised for keeping crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter, Doktor Kaboom is also known for empowering volunteers from the audience to be the heroes of the moment. In Under Pressure!, Kaboom validates the pressures some students may feel, and shares tools and life lessons as resources for dealing with the difficulties that face us all.

  • 60 Minutes – No Intermission
  • Sensory Inclusive or Relaxed performances available
learning connections

Digital Learning Guide created and shared by The Kennedy Center

  • Science (Embedded Inquiry, Embedded Technology and Engineering)
  • Physical Science (Pressure, Forces of Nature)
  • Chemical Reaction
  • STEAM
  • Theatre 
    • Responding (TH:Re8.1.3.b): Consider multiple ways to develop a character using physical characteristics and prop or costume design choices that reflect cultural perspectives in drama/theater work
    • Responding (TH:Re9.1.5.b): Assess how technical elements represent the theme of a drama/theater work.
  • Health (Preventing Injuries)
  • CASEL Competencies (Social and Emotional Learning)
    • Self-Management: The abilities to manage one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors effectively in different situations and to achieve goals and aspirations. This includes the capacities to delay gratification, manage stress, and feel motivation and agency to accomplish personal and collective goals.
      • Managing one’s emotions
      • Identifying and using stress management strategies
    • Responsible Decision-Making: The abilities to make caring and constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions across diverse situations. This includes the capacities to consider ethical standards and safety concerns, and to evaluate the benefits and consequences of various actions for personal, social, and collective well-being.
      • Demonstrating curiosity and open-mindedness

Dan Morris