SUMMARY
This research aims to improve the skills of Teater Kenes SMPN 4 Yogyakarta in performing the drama with the “Role Playing” method. This method is one of the various methods used in the study of Drama Performance. One of the advantages of utilizing this method is to help students in solving their personal problems. Role Playing provides the opportunity for students to determine their personal problems, then do some experiment in various ways to resolve the problems when it occurs.This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR). The subject of the research is Teater Kenes, SMPN 4 Yogyakarta involving 10 students. This study consists of two cycles. Each cycle consists of four stages, namely planning, action, observation, and reflection. Data collection techniques are questionnaires, interviews, observation and documentation of the learning activities. Analyses are performed with a qualitative descriptive technique that is supported by quantitative data. The validity of the data obtained through validity (processes, products, democratic, and dialogue) and reliability.The results shown that the method of Role Playing can improve playing skills in Teater Kenes SMPN 4 Yogyakarta. The ability of the students in role-play before their implementation of measures categorized is considered as Below Average Category. However, after the implementation of the action during the two cycles, the ability of the students in the drama belongs to Good Category. It is based on the observation of students from Pre-Action with the arithmetic mean value of 17.6 (29.33%), the first cycle of 21.1 (35.17%), and the second cycle the average value of count to 37, 6 (62.67%). The ability to play drama of the students from Pre-Action to the second cycle is increased by 20 (33.34%). Moreover, the process of learning to play the drama is also increased. Prior to the implementation of the action, the students were not stimulated to play a role, less active, and were hesitate to make a move so that the target is less than standard. After the implementation of the action, students become more daring, active in learning, and they are not hesitate to make a move, even they are able to improvise. It can be seen from the observation during the learning process of Pre-Action with the arithmetic mean value of 7.6 (38%), the first cycle of 9.6 (48%), and the second cycle the average value of count to 17, 2 (86%). Thus, the process of learning to play the drama of Pre-Action to the second cycle is increased by 9.6 (48%).Keywords: dramatic play, role playing, teater kenes SMPN 4 yogyakarta