Theatre Education: Challenges and Opportunities for 2024-25 School Year
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 explore the challenges and opportunities facing theatre educators as they prepare for the 2024-25 school year.
Plus, we will inform you about the most crucial theatre news and stories from last week.
So, raise the curtain, shine the spotlight, and dive into another thrilling week in the theatre world. Welcome to The Scene.
Correction: Scholarship Application Process
In the Big Idea story titled “Discover the ALWI University Scholarships Available from The American Theatre Wing,” published last week, we inaccurately described the application requirements for the ALWI University Scholarship. Contrary to what was reported, the scholarship application is no longer a two-phase process. Applicants must submit all required documents, including transcripts and letters of recommendation, in the initial phase of the application. We regret the error and apologize for any confusion it may have caused.
Adam Lambert and Auli'i Cravalho to Join Cabaret on Broadway by Molly Higgins and Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | The two will make their Broadway debuts in the hit revival. Read...
Adrienne Warren, Nick Jonas-Led ‘Last Five Years’ Finds a Broadway Home by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | Find out when the Jason Robert Brown musical will begin its Broadway debut. Read...
‘Oh, Mary!’ Extends Broadway Run Into November by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | The Broadway transfer of Cole Escola’s campy comedy officially opened July 11 at the Lyceum Theatre. Read...
Peter Dinklage, Lupita Nyong'o, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Sandra Oh Will Bring Back Free Shakespeare in the Park in 2025 by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | The foursome will lead a new production of Twelfth Night, reopening Central Park's Delacorte Theater. Read...
What Shows Are Newly Available For Licensing? by Natan Zamansky, Playbill | Is your local school or theatre trying to decide what show to produce next? Check out what titles have recently been released for licensing! Read...
Which Broadway Theatre Has Won the Most Tony Awards? by Margaret Hall, Playbill | Looking to win a Tony Award? These Broadway theatres may be your lucky charm. Read...
Inside a Senior ‘Guys and Dolls,’ Where the Cast Is Over 60, and Cue Cards Are A-OK by Logan Culwell-Block, Playbill | At Lenox Hill Neighborhood House, retirees are showing that if you want to perform, there's always a second act. Read...
Listen to Cynthia Erivo Sing 'Defying Gravity' in the New ‘Wicked’ Trailer:
The Big Idea
Theatre Education: Challenges and Opportunities for 2024-25 School Year
by Zach Dulli, The Scene
As the 2024-25 school year approaches, theatre educators are preparing to face a variety of challenges and embrace numerous opportunities. Theatre education remains a crucial component of the high school experience, fostering creativity, collaboration, and cultural awareness among students. However, educators must navigate a complex landscape characterized by funding constraints, administrative support, evolving trends, and a heightened focus on diversity and inclusion.
Key Challenges Facing Theatre Educators
Funding and Resources: One of the most persistent challenges for theatre educators is securing adequate funding and resources. Many schools struggle to allocate sufficient budgets for theatre programs, which require money for productions, costumes, sets, and technical equipment. According to a report by the Educational Theatre Association, approximately 28% of theatre teachers rely heavily on fundraising efforts to cover program costs. This reliance on external funding sources can create disparities in program quality, depending on the socioeconomic status of the school's community.
Administrative Support: The level of support from school administrations varies significantly across the country. In some schools, theatre programs receive robust backing, including financial support, dedicated spaces for rehearsals and performances, and recognition of the program's educational value. However, other schools offer limited support, viewing theatre as a lower priority compared to core academic subjects. This lack of support can hinder the growth and sustainability of theatre programs.
Student Engagement: Maintaining high levels of student engagement is another challenge for theatre educators. With a plethora of extracurricular activities available, students often have to make difficult choices about where to invest their time. To attract and retain students, theatre programs must continuously innovate and adapt to student interests. Programs that offer contemporary, relevant experiences and opportunities for student agency tend to see better engagement.
Opportunities and Innovations
Digital Integration: The integration of digital tools has become an essential aspect of modern theatre education. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online platforms for rehearsals, workshops, and even virtual performances. Tools like Zoom and Google Classroom allow for greater flexibility, enabling students to participate remotely and facilitating collaboration with peers and professionals from different locations. This digital shift has opened new possibilities for hybrid and fully virtual theatre experiences.
Collaborations with Local Theatres and Professionals: Collaborations with local theatres, professional artists, and universities present valuable opportunities for high school theatre programs. Such partnerships can offer mentorship, internships, and practical experiences that enrich students' educational journeys. For example, professional actors and directors can conduct workshops, provide feedback on student productions, and even involve students in professional productions, bridging the gap between educational and professional theatre.
New Curriculum Models: Innovative curriculum models are emerging to reflect contemporary and diverse works. By incorporating plays and materials that represent a wide range of cultural, racial, and social perspectives, educators can create more inclusive and engaging theatre programs. This approach not only broadens students' understanding of the world but also ensures that all students see themselves represented in the material.
Current Trends in Theatre Education
Devised Theatre: Devised theatre, which involves students creating original works collaboratively, is gaining popularity in high school programs. This approach emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and student agency, allowing students to explore their own ideas and express themselves through theatre. Devised projects can range from short scenes to full-length productions, often addressing contemporary issues and personal experiences.
Social Justice Themes: Incorporating themes of social justice, equity, and inclusion into theatre productions and classroom discussions has become a significant trend. Educators are using theatre as a platform to explore and discuss issues such as race, gender, and inequality. This trend not only aligns with broader educational goals but also engages students in meaningful, real-world conversations.
Technology in Theatre: The use of technology in theatre education extends beyond virtual performances. High school theatre programs are increasingly incorporating advanced lighting, sound design, and multimedia elements into productions. These technological innovations not only enhance the quality of performances but also prepare students for the demands of modern theatre careers.
Addressing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Abolitionist Teaching: Abolitionist teaching principles are being applied to theatre education to dismantle systemic inequalities and create inclusive spaces. This involves critically examining existing practices and making intentional changes to support all students, particularly those from marginalized communities. By fostering an environment of equity and inclusion, educators can ensure that theatre programs are accessible and welcoming to all.
Diverse Play Selections: Selecting diverse plays is crucial for creating an inclusive theatre program. Educators are choosing works that reflect a variety of cultural, racial, and social experiences, allowing students to explore different perspectives and stories. This approach not only enriches the educational experience but also promotes empathy and understanding among students.
Inclusive Casting: Inclusive casting practices break traditional norms and promote diversity within theatre programs. They involve casting without strict adherence to conventional racial or gender roles, providing more opportunities for underrepresented students. Inclusive casting helps create a more equitable theatre environment and reflects the diversity of the student body.
Navigating Controversial Show Choices
Community Engagement: Engaging the community in discussions about show selections can help build support and understanding for potentially controversial productions. Educators can hold forums, informational sessions, and discussions with parents, students, and community members to explain the educational value and themes of the chosen productions. This proactive approach fosters a sense of collaboration and transparency.
Educational Context: Providing educational context for controversial plays is essential for helping students and parents understand the themes and messages being explored. Educators can use study guides, pre-show discussions, and post-show talkbacks to frame the material appropriately and facilitate meaningful conversations about the issues presented.
Clear Policies: Establishing clear policies and guidelines for selecting shows can help manage potential controversies and ensure a transparent decision-making process. By having well-defined criteria and rationale for show choices, educators can navigate challenges more effectively and maintain the integrity of their theatre programs.
As we approach the 2024-25 school year, theatre educators in US high schools face a dynamic landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities. Funding and administrative support remain critical issues, but innovations in digital tools, collaborations, and curriculum models offer exciting possibilities. Trends such as devised theatre, social justice themes, and technology integration are shaping the future of theatre education, while a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that all students can benefit from the transformative power of theatre. By addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities, theatre educators can continue to inspire and educate the next generation of artists and leaders.
What other challenges and opportunities do you face for the 2024-25 school year? Let us know in the comments.
Zizi Strallen Went From Abercrombie & Fitch Sales to West End Star by Andrew Gans, Playbill | The ‘Mary Poppins’ title player will soon be seen in starry ‘Oklahoma!’ concerts and the London return of ‘Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist.’ Read...
‘A Knight's Tale’ Musical Will Make World Premiere in Manchester Next Year by Andrew Gans, Playbill | Brona C Titley is adapting the 2001 film that starred Heath Ledger and Paul Bettany. Read...
20 Shows to See at the 2024 Edinburgh Festival Fringe by Playbill | With over 3,800+ shows on offer, the Playbill team is excited about these 20. Read...
Lorna Courtney, Damon Daunno, Taylor Iman Jones, and More Cast in the World Premiere of “Empire Records the Musical” by Andrew Gans, Playbill | Trip Cullman will direct the new musical, penned by Zoe Sarnak and Carol Heikkinen, at New Jersey's McCarter. Read...
See Who's Starring in ‘The Mountaintop’ at Alliance Theatre by Molly Higgins, Playbill | Tinashe Kajese-Bolden will direct Katori Hall's play at the Atlanta theatre. Read...
Off-Broadway Hit ‘Titanìque’ Will Dock in Chicago by Andrew Gans, Playbill | The hit send-up of the blockbuster film Titanic is preparing to sail into the Windy City. Read...
Free Reads of the Week
Read entire plays for free! Playscripts offers a selection of full plays that you can access for free, ideal for use in theatre productions, school performances, or competitions. To explore these titles, simply click on the cover image provided below or select the "READ FOR FREE" button at the bottom of this section. This action will direct you to the specific play's page on the Playscripts website. Once there, click on "READ NOW" to begin enjoying the play immediately!
Home for the Chalidays by Sharyn Rothstein
The Story: A suburban Jewish family returns home on the third night of Chanukah to find that their house has been broken into. Panic and distrust conspire to convince the family that their neighbor's latent anti-Semitism has played a role in the vandalism. Home for the Chalidays is a hysterical satire about the conflicting roles of secularism and cultural differences and, ultimately, the evolving nature of the American Jewish family.
Holiday Comedy | 15 - 25 minutes | 2 W, 2 M | Content Notes: Mild adult language | Set: A messy suburban living room that was recently burglarized.
Thank you thank you thank you for including your report on the state of theater education in our country, especially its pivotal role and ability to help young people escape from the pervasive meaning and mental health crisis in which they're mired.
Besides the obvious SEL objectives, theater's promotion of collaborative skills, its emphasis on personal responsibility, comfort with spontaneity, empathy, and practice of seeing and being seen, should place it as a foundational and fundamental practice for all students.
As a theater teacher who has pivoted to private practice, I am amazed at how little time and money is afforded to these programs. I applaud the resourcefulness of these dedicated stewards of a dying art, at least here in the US. I will support your cause as best as I'm able, and champion your work in bringing awareness to these creative endeavors.