Our Mission
We firmly believe in the transformative power of arts education. Beyond teaching artistic skills, we view the arts as a catalyst for creating supportive spaces where students can learn and grow. Our commitment extends to nurturing essential interpersonal skills that are invaluable both on and off the stage.
Social Emotional Learning
Social and emotional learning skills or “soft skills” are just as important for students’ education as math and reading. Though it’s considered a non-academic area of competency, research shows that social emotional learning skills can have a positive impact on academic success (casel.org). Children learn better in an environment where they feel safe, welcomed and cared for, not just by the teachers or administrators but by their peers as well.
Social emotional learning skills can be incorporated into existing subjects in a variety of ways. I find that theatre and creative arts programs are the most fun and interactive approach. When taught during class or an after-school setting, theatre based games like applied improvisation, devised playwriting, and storytelling give students the space to learn and practice these vital life skills, develop healthy identities, encourage critical thinking, form lasting relationships with peers and make decisions that have a positive impact on their social and academic lives.
Character Education
Character education programs teach moral values like kindness, compassion, and advocacy as well as performance values like determination, work ethic, and growth mindset. These values teach us to make conscious, responsible decisions that reflect our cultural and societal values.
Character education can be infused into subjects that are part of existing curriculums in a fun and interactive way. Through role playing, devised playwriting, applied improvisation, and visual arts, children have the opportunity to practice these values in a safe and supportive environment.
Performance Value
Through theatre arts performances students can implement the interpersonal and character development skills they’ve learned in an environment that is encouraging and judgement free. The outcome is that students become empowered in a way that inspires them to advocate for themselves and others in a more positive and impactful way.