Theatre In Our Schools

Teaching theatre in our schools, it’s proven, is positively life-changing for students. The art form teaches vital 21st-century skills that we use on and off the stage, in the classroom, and in our everyday lives. The skills learned through performing arts strengthen communication, technical, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills—all while fostering joy, creativity, and connections.

The Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) advocates passionately for theatre education for all. We see firsthand how students’ lives change because of their involvement in theatre, and we know how much communities thrive when they engage with the stage. We’re spreading the message far and wide about #TheatreInOurSchools as a year-round movement … and we’re posting now because March has unofficially been when focus has been magnified on the movement. You’re invited to join the efforts!

WHAT IS THEATRE IN OUR SCHOOLS?

Theatre in Our Schools is a program that equips students, teachers, parents, and other advocates with tools to help decision makers understand the power of theatre education. The month of March is designated as a 30-day stretch of concentrated activities in schools and surrounding communities, with the media, and even with legislators focused on shining a light on the value of theatre education.

Even though we dedicate our communications and content to amplifying the Theatre in Our Schools message in March, we can advocate for its inclusion all year long.

HOW YOU CAN ADVOCATE

Theatre in Our Schools High school students with two adults on stage

Photo credit David Slaughter Photography Network

Staying active on the socials (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube) is a great way to keep the message alive about the benefits of theatre education. Pro tip: Know where your intended audiences hang out and reach them there. If you’re a student who’s applying to higher education, it’s also an easy and engaging way to showcase your theatrical skills and experiences. Learn more in our blog, Social Media as a Tool for Success.

Here are a few ways to join the conversation, digitally:
#1 Follow EdTA and International Thespian Society on Facebook and Instagram
#2 Use the hashtag #TheatreInOurSchools when posting relevant content on your channels
#3 Engage with Thespians and educators around the country who are using #TheatreInOurSchools (or the former hashtag #TIOS) by liking, commenting, following, and reposting content (because remember that social media is about being social)
#4 Send content to friends, family, and other followers to put the message on their radars.

When it comes to creating your own content, just think about how much theatre education is already present in your life. You likely attend classes, work on projects, perform in or work on productions, attend shows and events, read and watch industry news, and even follow the careers of your favorite theatre artists. Whatever you post, and however you post it, be sure it’s authentically and uniquely you (and remember to include the #TheatreInOurSchools hashtag).

Get Started with These Ideas for Advocacy

● Share behind-the-scenes photos and videos of rehearsals
● Post a blog about a meaningful theatre experience, an industry topic that fascinates you, or any other theatrically driven subject
● Show how theatre skills have supported your non-theatre activities
● Document your journey with learning a new theatrical skill, like sewing, lighting design, directing, vocal techniques, stage combat, etc.
● Post visuals of your experience in theatre classes, workshops, conferences, field trips, and other relevant activities
● Share memories about your journey or life in theatre
● Publish quotes from industry figures, historical players, lines from plays, or lyrics from musicals that inspire and encourage you

Keep in mind, there are some limitations when it comes to documenting material that’s protected by copyright. For example, you shouldn’t record a live performance for your personal channels, unless you have specific permission to do so. You can learn more about these important details in our blog, Copyright in Theatre.

STAY VOCAL AND VISIBLE

To achieve the goals of Theatre in Our Schools, we theatre artists and educators need to stick together as a community and advocate for ourselves and others. Use your social channels to provide resources, share insights, publish content that makes an impact, and stay vocal and visible about the power of theatre education. ♦

Natalie Clare is a regular contributor to Dramatics.org. She is a freelance writer, arts and culture reporter, and content marketer who lives in Cincinnati. Visit her here.