I was always the quietest one in the room. I never talked in school, and if I did, it was but a whisper. Then, in a bold move, I joined theater. Theater gave me friends and confidence. I started talking, and looking at me now, I make funny remarks in school, I'm in a club I love, and I am writing on here! But I'm not the only one affected by theater; these quotes from my friends show just how deeply theater has impacted our lives.

“Theater was great for me because, surprisingly, I used to be very shy, and it was my only outlet to let my true weird out.”

“I started theater at a young age because I wanted something to do, and I wasn't that interested in sports. Then I kinda realized "Hey, I'm actually good at this", so I decided to continue acting. Throughout middle school, acting became my way to escape the troubles of daily life including a bully who would not leave me alone. In the theater I found my true friends!”

“I started acting when I was nine, but it didn't really stick until I turned 11 and BCA had its first play. My mom asked if I wanted to do it, and I was like "sure." I'm so glad I joined because I realized it was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I've met so many amazing people from tiny little children to adults. I'm so happy I've met you all because you are part of and are the thing that matters to me most!”

Performing in shows gives you a sort of freedom you can't experience elsewhere. You can easily begin by joining theater in school or in your community.

When in you're part of a theater, everything that might matter outside doesn't. You aren't defined by your gender, sexuality, or looks - none of that is relevant. The only thing that matters is your personality, who you truly are. And I find that beautiful.