What is the importance of theatre for young children in schools? I chose this question because it is an art form in which I am very passionate about, explore, and investigate in almost everything I do. It has shaped who I am today, and I have been fortunate enough to watch it shape the minds of a few young children in the last year or so, as I have taught theatre classes to young children in the East Van area.

(Leaky Heaven Macbeth workshop – Summer, 2013)

I can certainly speak from my own experience when I say that I have noticed significant benefits to children’s behavior and energy when theatre is a part of their day. Theatre in the classroom has become the pathway to my learning day-to-day, month-to-month, and eventually year-to-year.

(My Inquiry presentation at UBC on the importance of theatre in the classroom)

One of the most important and relevant things I learned in theatre school during my undergrad was the need of a structure and guidelines in order to work with a sense of freedom and exploration.This may seem contradictory, but the times when a teacher or director has given me complete free rain of creativity and exploration on stage, with no structure or borders, are the times when I have been the most lost. This has lead to my collaborators and myself becoming quite frustrated. The structure needs to be within the lessons, as clear direction should be given to the kids, yet, they need to be allowed the space and freedom (physical, and emotional) to play and explore. Having said that, I will be in constant dialogue with the students, asking them about what kinds of work they wish to produce, and what subject matter they are excited about exploring.

In my experience, there is nothing like watching a child develop a passion for something, and want to improve, while working together with their peers and collaborators to achieve a goal. There is no right or wrong answer in theatre – only dedication, exploration, and ability to listen and allows things to effect you.