Fostering Emotional Intelligence Through Theatre
Plus, your weekly round-up of theatre news you may have missed!
Welcome to The Scene, your weekly round-up of theatre news you may have missed. In this week's email, we discuss How participation in theatre can develop emotional intelligence in students. Plus, we catch you up on the week's most important theatre news and stories, including:
Lynn Nottage interviews Jocelyn Bioh for American Theatre Magazine,
The 25 Best Off-Broadway Shows to See in Spring 2024,
“Shucked” to receive a Film Adaptation
All that and more in this week’s edition of The Scene.
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Tony Award nominees Jeremy Jordan and Eva Noblezada will lead “The Great Gatsby” on Broadway by Michael Abourizk, Broadway News | The transfer of the Paper Mill Playhouse production will open at the Broadway Theatre on April 25. Read...
The 25 Best Off-Broadway Shows to See in Spring 2024 by Adam Feldman, TimeOut | A spring preview of the most exciting new Off-Broadway musicals and plays that are set to open in early 2024. Read...
“Stereophonic” will transfer to Broadway by Michael Abourizk, Broadway News | David Adjmi’s sold-out Off-Broadway play will open on the Main Stem in April 2024. Read...
“Harmony” Announces Closing by Michael Abourizk, Broadway News | The Barry Manilow-Bruce Sussman musical opened at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on Nov. 13. Read...
“How To Dance In Ohio” Launches Partnership with Autistic Theatremakers Alliance by Chloe Rabinowitz, Broadway World | The inaugural partnership event will take place on Thursday, January 25th, with an extraordinary celebration of New York’s Neurodivergent Theatre Companies. Read...
“Shucked” to receive a Film Adaptation by Michael Abourizk, Broadway News | Producer Mike Bosner made the announcement after the musical’s final Broadway bow. Read...
“Hell’s Kitchen” Announces Fellowship Program by Ruthie Fierberg, Broadway News | Applications are now open for prospective fellows, who will learn across nine departments during the musical’s mounting process. Read...
Little-Known Theater Jobs: Production Sound Supervisor by Ruthie Fierberg, Broadway News | Phil Lojo has overseen the sound on shows like “The Color Purple” and “Back to the Future.” Read...
Douglas Lyons will pen “Big River” Movie Adaptation by Michael Abourizk, Broadway News | The musical won the 1985 Tony Award for Best Musical. Read on...
Jocelyn Bioh: Specific and Universal by Lynn Nottage, American Theatre | The writer of “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding” talks about her process, her curiosity about characters, and her play’s heartening success. Read...
Carmen Cusack Will Be Part of “Anne of Green Gables” Musical Industry Presentations by Meg Masseron, Playbill | The Broadway-aimed adaptation of the famed novel features a book and lyrics by Matte O’Brien and music by Matt Vinson. Read...
The Big Idea
Fostering Emotional Intelligence Through Theatre
How participation in theatre can develop emotional intelligence in students.
by Zach Dulli, The Scene
In today's fast-paced world, emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in personal growth and success. It goes beyond book smarts or academic achievements; it encompasses understanding our own emotions as well as empathizing with others. And what better way to cultivate these essential skills than through the magic of theatre?
Now you might be wondering: What exactly is emotional intelligence? Well, think of it as your ability to recognize and manage your own feelings while also understanding the emotions of those around you. It's like having an emotional compass that guides you through life's ups and downs with grace and empathy.
You might also be thinking: Why on earth does emotional intelligence matter in education? Well, research has shown that students who possess high levels of emotional intelligence are more likely to excel academically, establish healthier relationships with peers and adults alike (goodbye drama!), handle stress effectively (adios anxiety!), and even exhibit better problem-solving skills. All crucial skills needed for success both inside and outside the classroom! So, if we want our future generation to thrive holistically - mind AND heart united - then fostering emotional intelligence should be at the forefront of any educational agenda.
This is when theatre swoops in like a shining knight on a mission to develop these critical skills in students from all walks of life. From cultivating empathy on stage to enhancing self-awareness behind the scenes, theatre provides an immersive experience where emotions run wild – helping students become more emotionally intelligent individuals.
The Relationship Between Theatre and Emotional Intelligence
One way theatre cultivates emotional intelligence is by allowing us to step into someone else's shoes. Through the art of storytelling, actors learn empathy as they embody different characters and experience their struggles and triumphs. This deep understanding of others' perspectives helps build compassion and sensitivity towards others.
In addition to fostering empathy, theatre also promotes self-awareness. As performers explore various roles, they gain insights into their own emotions, motivations, and reactions. This heightened self-awareness allows them to better understand themselves on a deeper level, leading to personal growth and improved emotional regulation.
It's clear that there is a strong relationship between theatre participation and emotional intelligence development. By immersing ourselves in the world of acting, we not only enhance our ability to empathize with others but also deepen our understanding of ourselves. So next time you watch a play– remember that you're not just enjoying entertainment; you're building your emotional intelligence, too!
How Theatre Can Cultivate Empathy
When you're on stage, you have to embody different characters with unique perspectives and emotions. It's like walking a mile in someone else's shoes. In one moment, you could be a brave hero saving the day; in the next, a heartbroken lover crying rivers of tears. Through these transformations, theatre helps students develop an understanding and appreciation for diverse experiences and feelings. You start to realize that everyone has their own story to tell and struggles to overcome.
Theatre also allows students to witness firsthand how their actions impact others. As they interact with fellow actors on stage or collaborate behind the scenes, they learn about teamwork and compromise. They see how small gestures of support or kindness can make all the difference in creating a positive environment.
Theatre is like an empathy gymnasium where students flex their emotional muscles by diving deep into characters' lives while simultaneously connecting with those around them.
How Theatre Helps Develop Self-Awareness
If you ever find yourself wondering who you really are? Don't worry, it's a question we all ponder from time to time. But did you know that participating in theatre can actually help develop self-awareness? That's right, the stage is not just for entertainment; it's also a powerful tool for personal growth!
In theatre, actors are constantly exploring different characters and emotions. They have to dig deep within themselves to understand their own thoughts and feelings. This process of introspection allows them to become more aware of their own strengths, weaknesses, and motivations.
So next time you're feeling lost or uncertain about who you are, consider stepping onto the stage! Whether it's through acting classes or joining a local community theater group, engaging in theater can be an enlightening experience that fosters self-awareness like no other. Take center stage in your own life and discover the incredible person hiding within!
Conclusion
So, there you have it! We've explored the wonderful world of theatre and its powerful impact on developing emotional intelligence in students. From cultivating empathy to fostering self-awareness, theatre truly has a knack for nurturing those valuable emotional abilities.
The potential of theatre is boundless when it comes to fostering emotional intelligence in students. Let's embrace this creative art form as a powerful tool for personal growth and meaningful connections. Go ahead – step into the spotlight and let your emotions shine!
“Next To Normal” Cast Reunites for Transfer to West End by Georgia Luckhurst, The Stage | The cast of the Donmar Warehouse’s Next to Normal will reunite as the production prepares to transfer to the West End. Read...
Rami Malek and Indira Varma to star in “Oedipus” at the Old Vic in London by Matthew Hemley, The Stage | Oscar-winning actor Rami Malek and Indira Varma will lead the cast at the Old Vic in London, adapted by Ella Hickson. Read...
Benjamin Walker, More Complete Cast of Rufus Wainwright-Ivo Van Hove Musical “Opening Night” by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | Sheridan Smith is leading the cast of the new stage work based on John Cassavetes' 1977 film. Read...
“Mystic Pizza” Musical Makes West Coast Premiere at California's La Mirada Theatre Beginning January 19 by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | Krystina Alabado, Gianna Yanelli, and Kyra Kennedy star in the stage adaptation of the 1988 film. Read...
Cast and Creative Team Set for Arena Stage's World Premiere of “Tempestuous Elements” by Molly Higgins, Playbill | Kia Corthron's new play explores the trailblazing career of Black feminist Anna Julia Cooper. Read...
Julia Murney Will Direct “You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown” This Fall by Andrew Gans, Playbill | The musical comedy, based on the classic comic strip, is part of the newly announced 2024 season at the Sharon Playhouse. Read...
Hal Linden and Sally Struthers Star in World Premiere Play “The Journals of Adam and Eve” Beginning January 18 by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | The work from playwright Ed Weinberger is playing California's Garry Marshall Theatre. Read...
Read entire plays for free! Free Reads titles are perfect for your theatre, school, and competition performances. Click on the Play’s title or image to be taken to the Play’s page; once you are there, click the "READ NOW" button and enjoy!
Free Read of the Week:
The Dog Logs by CJ Johnson
The Story: From a tough Rottweiler with neighbor problems to an aging mongrel who discovers love late in life, this collection of hilarious and heartbreaking monologues examines the lives of dogs from every breed, age, and situation. Telling stories of friendship, romance, and revenge, The Dog Logs is a refreshing take on canine life that is touching and surprisingly human.
Comedy/Drama | 60 - 100 Minutes | 3 M, (1-15 Actors Possible: 0-15 W, 0-15 M) | Content Notes: Optional Adult Language | Set: None
