March 2019

March is Theatre in Our Schools month. This is a campaign coordinated with the The Educational Theatre Association, International Thespian Society. and the American Alliance for Theatre & Education. The Goal is to spread the word about the importance of theatre education, and  "draw attention to the need for more access to quality programs for all students." 

One of the things that we strongly believe is that it is our responsibilities, as theatre educators, is to educate our administrations, school boards, communities that theatre is more than a fun elective class. 

Oscar Wilde said, "I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” 

This is how we teach our young people about relationships, honestly, character, integrity, collaboration, passion, character flaws, strength, communication, problem solving,  self-confidence, leadership skills, flexibility, and so much more. These are the things that give us a sense of what it means to be successful. These are the things that give of us a sense of what it is like to be a human being. This is why theatre education is important. 

Here are 10 things to share with your family, friends, coworkers, and administration. 

95% of school administrators believe that theatre experiences improve students’ overall academic skills. 2012 EdTA-Utah State University Survey of Theatre Education Programs in U.S. High Schools

High school students engaged in Applied Drama playmaking gain an understanding of their voice as a tool for positive change in society. Research in Drama Education Journal, 2011

Drama instruction integrated into elementary classrooms improves students’ social and emotional development and contributes to a positive classroom culture. Arts Education Policy Review, 2010 4.

Middle school students taught lessons that integrate drama into instruction are more likely to voice their own ideas and engage in learning through active classroom participation. Journal for Learning through the Arts, 2011

High-poverty grade K-2 English language learners who receive weekly drama lessons demonstrate increased listening and speaking skills on standardized tests. Journal for Learning through the Arts, 2014

Middle school students engaged in play-building learn conflict resolutions skills, greater respect for peers, and how to listen to multiple points of view. International Journal of Education & the Arts, 2006

Reading play scripts out loud helps low-performing at-risk middle school students become better readers, with significant improvement in their vocabulary skills, vocal projection, and confidence. Reading & Writing Quarterly, 2008

Viewing plays about significant social issues, such as poverty, can help stimulate meaningful dialogue and understanding between teachers and students. Research in Drama Education: The Journal of Applied Theatre and Performance, 2010

High school students engaged in actor training develop a higher level of empathy, heightened understanding of what others are thinking and feeling, and are better able to control their own positive and negative emotions. Mind, Brain and Education, 2011

Elementary students have more vivid recall and a greater understanding of museum content when the visit includes dramatic performances by role-playing characters. Research in Drama Education: The Journal of Applied Theatre and Performance, 2002

4th Annual Symposium

Our 4th Annual Symposium is coming to Austin on April 23 & 24. Because many administrators will not allow theatre teachers to attend the UIL State Meet unless there is professional development, we offer this opportunity. Spend the mornings with us from 9:00 - 1:00 learning together. Then you can spend the afternoon watching the 4A & 5A UIL One-Act State Meet! 

Details are coming. 

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