Student theatre encapsulates so much more than just a “class” or “extra-curricular.” Theatre, instead, is a space where young people learn about teamwork and empathy while increasing their confidence and creativity. Through a shared performance, students also learn how to troubleshoot and problem solve in real time … all while enjoying themselves!
That said, the positive impact of theatre shouldn’t stop when a student steps off the stage. To nurture developing artists, educators like yourself can create ample opportunities outside of performances and the classroom for students to stay connected and engaged. If you’re looking for a few ways to boost student engagement and involve your young performers beyond your performances, On The Stage can help.
It’s no secret that theatre is a collaborative art form. The more people involved in your educational theatre programming, the better! And when students are encouraged to collaborate and engage with the broader community, the theatrical and educational experience becomes all the more meaningful.
Community involvement connects young performers to the world around them, showing them that their art has purpose and reach. It also assists with:
So, when school theatre programs open their doors to the community – whether that’s a local art group, other school programs, or involved family members – students are able to see that their hobby isn’t just an isolated pastime for “theatre nerds” — it’s a passion that’s strengthened through community.
We don’t need to tell you: people love a theme. Hosting a themed open house is an easy, low-stakes way to engage interested students, family, friends, and local creatives/supporters, helping them experience the magic of your theatre program.
During the open house, make sure things stay engaging with short performances, backstage tours, or individualized table stations where guests can get into the nitty-gritty of the theatrical experience – trying on costumes, learning a short scene, or operating lighting and sound technology.
Pro Tip: For your next open house, partner with On The Stage, which makes it easier than ever to manage RSVPs or ticketing – even for free events! With customizable event pages, show sites, and QR codes, you can track your open house’s attendance, share information, and capture audience interest for future endeavors.
While being a performer is the dream for many theatre students, there are plenty of kids who may want a spot in your program outside the spotlight. Hosting short workshops that introduce easy-to-understand technical elements, like lighting, sound design, costuming, and stage management, broadens your student scope and gives new kids a chance to explore the entire show production process.
If you’re looking for a way to market these workshops, the skills you teach during the events will not only diversify a student’s skills but will also open up pathways to potential careers. A student, through your workshop, may discover a hidden passion for costuming, engineering, or set design. Who knows?
We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: Collaboration is at the heart of theatre, and any project will blossom with the help of other creative communities. To engage more students, consider reaching out to nearby dance studios, college drama departments, local arts organizations, or involved clubs to collaborate on educational enrichment opportunities.
Joint events can run the gamut and may depend on the group or student age group. Consider master classes, panel discussions/Q&A’s, art classes, or open mic nights. No matter the event you choose, collaborating with other organizations helps to broaden artistic horizons, engage more students, and increase the visibility of your program.
While you may know which of your students can nail a triple pirouette or hit a well-supported G5 note, others could be hiding talents that they want to let loose. That’s why hosting a Talent Swap Night – where students can showcase their unique abilities beyond theatre– is a great idea. Think magic tricks, poetry, painting, songwriting, or even stand-up comedy.
Through an event like this, students can support one another and celebrate the diversity of skills they have outside traditional theatre expertise. It, too, will foster confidence, camaraderie, and appreciation. What more could you want?
Pro Tip: Double your Talent Swap Night as a community fundraiser and use the event to promote your program and raise some funds.
Another under-appreciated facet of the performing arts is the ability to write a compelling narrative. The performance, after all, is just one facet of the journey. Creating a playwriting club gives your quieter, more reserved students a chance to create their own works, find power in their own voices, experiment with new ideas, and better understand the skill that is storytelling.
A great way to keep this collaborative? Encourage feedback between students, as well as host table reads or staged readings.
A great way for students to bond with each other and with the community is through service projects. Consider planning performances at local nursing homes, libraries, or community centers. You can also bring the service to you by hosting free storytelling workshops, camps, or performances for younger children.
By giving back, students will learn the importance of volunteerism and will gain empathy for others. Sharing their gifts through service teaches compassion, responsibility, and gratitude, too.
By giving students meaningful ways to engage with each other and the community beyond your performances, you’re helping them build lifelong skills and a lasting love for the arts. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to engaging your students outside the classroom, On The Stage can help.
From promoting your events to streamlining ticketing, marketing, engagement, and fundraising, On The Stage has you covered. And whether you’re planning a free open house or a full-scale theatrical production, OTS’s all-in-one platform can support every step of your journey.
Ready to boost student engagement and elevate your theatre program? Partner with On The Stage and book a personalized demo today.