Acting and Performing
When it comes to hobbies, not all of us can throw a mean curve ball, set records sprinting down the final stretch of the track, or sink a basket for our teammates. Thankfully, sports aren’t the only game in town, and there is one incredible option available to most that celebrates an entirely different set of skills. I’m talking about drama. Theater. The stage. Musicals and plays. Linked to these events are communities that tend to celebrate the things that make us different. Besides, it takes just as much courage to perform in front of all your classmates and family as it does to play a football game or cheer.
One of the great things about the drama world is that there are such a variety of ways you can get involved. The first role that comes to mind is performing on stage with speaking parts, but there are always backup roles as well (some of them even non-speaking) so you can ease yourself into the experience and build up your confidence. There’s also the tech crew who are responsible for running the lights, sound, and other technical elements of the play. Hair, makeup, costume, or set design might be the perfect fit for someone else, and if you tend to like to be in charge, perhaps you could shadow someone who’s directing and learn what it takes to direct a play.
There are also a number of benefits to participating in the drama community. Here are a few (Hartt, 2015)!
Builds a strong work ethic. When you’re involved in a play, there’s an entire group of people relying on you to fulfill your role. It’s similar to a team sport in that way, but the end goal looks different. Also, obviously, no one is keeping score.
Teaches you social skills. You’ll encounter all kinds of people if you jump into a drama group, and you’ll need to learn how to work together with them or follow directions from directors or teachers with different styles. This requires the ability to communicate clearly, ask questions about anything you’re unsure of, and build new relationships. All great tools to have in your toolbelt!
It can make you feel special. This one might go without saying, but there is something about being on stage or putting on a show that gives you a sparkly, important feeling. And that’s great! If you love the feeling of being in the spotlight (or even of supporting the person who is), this might be a great fit for you.
It’s empowering. Sometimes a passion for the arts is perceived as weird or different by others, but in the drama world, it’s celebrated. If you keep it up, you’ll also eventually work alongside adults who respect you and treat you as an equal and that can be a very empowering experience.
If you think this might be the perfect hobby for you, check to see if there are any local theater groups in your city, or if you’re in school, check to see if they put on any plays.
Reference: Hartt, C. (2015). 14 ways acting is beneficial for kids and teens. Backstage. Retrieved from https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/ways-acting-beneficial-kids-teens-8666/.
Challenges/Points:
Performing in the dramatic arts offers a wide range of ways for you to get involved.
Behind the scenes roles such as hair, makeup, costume, set design, or tech can be perfect for those who want a creative outlet without being on center stage.
Drama can improve many skills including speaking/presenting, teamwork, and confidence.
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