Most people think that theatre is just for kids who are weirdos, freaks and outcasts at school. But what most people don't realize is that theatre is a very amazing learning experience where you will learn lessons that will last a lifetime. Being in theatre lets you break through your shell and so many other things. Here are just a few from my experience.
1. Theatre is cooler than everyone stereotypes it to be.
I don't care who you are or what you're into. Somewhere along your life you'll find yourself in a theatre enjoying a live performance of a play you've never heard of. Over my years in drama club, I've seen football players, math nerds, and even the most popular girl in school sing or act their heart out on stage.
2. We aren't just a club, we're a family.
I joined drama club in sixth grade (beginning of middle school). When I was younger I was very shy and never felt comfortable with myself. Of course I was an awkward middle schooler, doesn't everyone go through that phase? So I was terrified to join a group of kids that were so outgoing and comfortable in their own skin. But the moment I went to my first rehearsal, I was welcomed with open arms. Everyone was so nice and encouraging of each other. Over the years, I've realized that we're more than just a club that hang out with each other after school for fun. We are a family. We see each other at our worst (a.k.a tech week) and we see each other at our best (show nights).
3. It helps you learn disappointment at an early age.
I can't tell you how many times I've auditioned for a show and I really thought I nailed it. A few days later, I would look at the cast list and not see my name anywhere. Of course it was upsetting, but it has helped me realize that I am not going to get everything I want. It has helped me learn disappointment, at a very young age. While that seems like a negative thing, it really helps you in a lot of different situations. You build a thicker skin and start to learn to look at people from different perspectives.
4. Your theatre teacher will become your best friend and your worst enemy.
I have done all parts of theatre, from technical aspects to directing a whole show. So this means that I have spent a lot of time with my theatre teacher, inside and outside the classroom. There have been many days where I have wanted to kill him because he has made me so angry. But at the same time, he is only person that has given me the opportunity to thrive and become more myself than I ever though I could.
5. Theatre shapes who you are.
It is difficult for me to put into words how much theatre means to me. If I never joined back in middle school I wouldn't be the person I am today. Because of theatre, I have become much more confident in myself. I have been able to direct a show, stage manage a cast and tech crew for a theatre festival, and in between all of that, I have been able to squeeze in some acting. Because of theatre I will have long lasting friendships and memories I'll never forget. I'll have a teacher that I can always look to for guidance. And because of theatre, I am more me than I'll ever be.
Whether you are behind the scenes or singing your heart out on stage, I'm sure at some point during your theatre career these lessons will occur to you. Never be afraid to try something out of your element, because if I had never done that back in middle school, I wouldn't be the person I am today and learned these amazing things throughout my theatre journey.
