Theatre is often seen as a form of creative expression, but participating in Theatre can provide unique opportunities to develop valuable skills that go beyond the stage. These practical skills can be beneficial for students at school, within post-secondary studies, and even in their careers.

From communication and teamwork to critical thinking and creativity, Ms. Higginson, Ms. White, and Mrs. Donovan share how our learners can enhance their overall education and prepare for their future, all while having loads of fun!

Ms. Courtney Higginson
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Build Confidence
Theatre can help build the confidence to put yourself out there. Personally, what I learned in Theatre and drama has helped me as a teacher to be outgoing and perform for my students. Kids will be able to take these skills into future professions, social situations, and more.

Express Yourself
As an introvert myself, I can often be very shy and feel awkward in different situations and many students feel the same way. Theatre is a safe place to publicly express yourself and at times, become someone new in a short period.

Risk Taking
I tell my students if they don’t feel at least a bit silly, then they are not doing it right. Our perceptions of ourselves are often much bigger than what others see when they look at us.

“Personally, what I learned in Theatre and drama has helped me as a teacher to be outgoing and perform for my students.”

This can relate to how fast we talk; how big our movements or blunders are; the way we look, or sound is worse in our own heads. We are our own worst critics. They may think that they are making big movements or large expressions and feel silly doing so, but in reality, the audience sees something much smaller. My goal is for them to take the risk of feeling silly so that the audience has the chance to really see what they can do.

Ms. Melanie White
MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATRE TEACHER

Teamwork
Students learn about collaboration, teamwork, supporting one another, and trust during Theatre. You have to work with one another when you act or support a production.

Self-Perception
In Middle School and High School, students learn how they come across to others and they learn about fluidity, the ability to change how you see yourself, the world, and your actions, through character creation exercises. Through this, they recognize where they fit in different situations and learn to make adjustments and how to navigate situations to think of others and of themselves.

All-Around Skills Development
There is no profession where Theatre experience won’t enhance your ability to do it better – memorization, public speaking, creativity, teamwork, playfulness – at least one of these will come up in your job, every day.

Leadership
Our Theatre program is very focused on letting students lead. They are empowered to have a voice, direct, produce, and share ideas and bring them to life.

Mrs. Danielle Donovan
HIGH SCHOOL & THEATRE TEACHER

Supports Academia
Theatre requires studying and analyzing scripts, characters, and scenes, and bringing creative ideas to life on stage. Students can also be behind-the-scenes, managing sets and lighting. Whether it’s on stage or backstage, those who engage in Theatre are encouraged to think critically, problem-solve, and come up with innovative ideas, which are all transferable to every area of study.

Empathy and Understanding
We learn how to be more empathetic in certain situations and to read body language. Classes often involve exploring different perspectives and emotions. We practice “walking from” other people’s lives or stories so we can change our perceptions, gain a better understanding of others, and confront our own biases.

Good for Mind and Body
Classes are in a relaxed environment where students can connect with each other on a different level. We dance, we use our bodies for expression, we communicate with our bodies, and when we perform, we use our bodies and movements to tell a story.