Always thought performing arts are just for the ultra confident kids? Lots of people have a preconceived notion of what performing arts are. You might imagine a room full of constantly energetic and already experienced actors, dancers and singers. Or perhaps serious types with their noses buried in scripts and ballet syllabuses?
In reality, that’s not the case.
The performing arts are for all young people who want to experience something new; the teens who want to feel like they belong in a community and the young people whose skills may otherwise go under the radar.
Performing arts enrich the lives of those who take part in any aspect of them. It’s especially valuable for the more shy and anxious people who might think theatre is a distant dream.
Among Friends
A performing arts company isn’t like most classrooms. These sessions have a more relaxed tone where students are encouraged to feel at ease, and this lets everyone feel comfortable giving their best performance.
There is no right and wrong here because the arts are interpretative by nature. One student may put all of their emotion into an improvised song, and another may perform a carefully choreographed and energetic dance routine. Everyone has the chance to express themselves without fearing the judgement of others because everyone is there for the same reason: to enjoy and fulfil their passion.
In fact, a huge part of the process is about learning to support and appreciate the work of others, making every mistake an ideal opportunity. Sessions offer a safe space where the students share a common goal – to nurture a love of performing, grow their skills and improve their confidence in a supportive environment.
A lifelong love of the arts forms quickly when you’re surrounded by shared enthusiasm and passion.
Finding Your Voice
A theatre company isn’t just for the kids who naturally take the spotlight. It can be easy for shy or introverted children to be overlooked day to day by schoolteachers and peers alike.
But in reality, we often discover that our most popular performers are the ones who are most introverted off the stage! You’ll often find that more reserved people make the best performers, since their shyness indicates a deeper sensitivity and thoughtfulness.
It’s common for children who aren’t confident in themselves to be reluctant to speak up. They may not easily voice their thoughts or needs at school, in friendship groups, or at home.
However, in our performing arts company, every child has a voice and the invitation to be heard. Children aren’t pressured into forced interactions but guided through group exercises and activities. Young people are empowered with the tools they need to express their thoughts and feelings in a way that makes them feel empowered, not coerced.
The arts have a way of giving you access to non-verbal expression too. A voice can be found through dance or movement without ever saying a word. In this way, the performing arts are an incredibly accessible activity for all children, whether shy or bold.
Our Approach To Confidence
At Theatretrain, our students get the chance to perform in stunning, large venues, which may seem daunting to some.
While our performances are hugely anticipated events to most, we acknowledge that standing on a stage is scary to some students.We meet countless students who are initially nervous about performing. Without fail this turns out to be a good thing, because it shows they care, and when they see it through they realise that they can do this!
Our directors take the time needed to work with each student, find their inner passion, and see the joy in performing. Technique and technical skills are essential for developing a solid performer, but most important is that a student finds a personal connection with their performance to drive them on.
When children find this connection, that’s when their confidence grows. Young people who feel excited and proud of what they’re achieving can make a huge difference. They carry themselves differently once these building blocks of self-esteem are in place.
The Whole World Is A Stage
There’s nothing like doing something you truly enjoy. Performing is a two-way street, as both performer and audience are brought together in something both parties are passionate about. The feeling of doing something you enjoy for the enjoyment of others spills over into other aspects of life.
Students often apply their performance skills when in other settings, from giving a presentation in class to earning a badge at guides or cubs.
The performing arts allow you to develop not just as a performer but as a person.
There Is No One You-er Than You!
Performing arts isn’t a subject for just one particular type of person. Students of theatre often find themselves growing with every new ability unlocked and challenge overcome.
We encourage each student to explore performance and how it can help them find their identity. Performing requires all types of people and personalities, from reserved and earnest to bubbly and wild. The important thing that students can learn is that they don’t have to put themselves into one box. They can express themselves freely.
Playing a role gives students the chance to explore other characteristics – ones that are unfamiliar and new. This experience helps them to define who they are for a stronger sense of self. In this environment, personalities flourish as confidence soars.
Skills For Life
The skills and tools you learn in performing arts are ones that stay with you for life. In a time where academic emphasis in schools is not on the arts and where in recent years arts provision has been cut back, an opportunity to bring it in through extracurricular training will serve your child well in the present and for their future growth.
Confidence comes in many forms, and not always in the most obvious ways, but when you see the pride your child takes in their new skills, you’ll see how performing arts is much more than just putting on a show.
Performing arts will help with self-esteem and confidence, not just now, but for a lifetime.
Want to find performing arts training near you? Use our tool to find a Theatretrain company near you and find out how performing arts could benefit your child.
