Grease, Grit, and Growth: My School Theater Experience

Theater and drama programs offer unique benefits that help students develop important life skills. When students participate in these activities, they learn about teamwork and collaboration as they work together to create performances. Each role, whether on stage or behind the scenes, contributes to the success of the whole production.

I remember in high school I was a part of the theatre’s tech club, where we built the sets and props. I spent most of my time in this extracurricular learning how to use tools and build basic structures like stairs and backdrop walls. I also got the opportunity to meet new people and work together as a team, bonding through the frustration of getting a car on the stage for “Grease”. 

One of the most valuable aspects of theater programs is the friendships they foster. Students from different backgrounds and with varying interests come together with a shared purpose. These connections often extend beyond rehearsals and performances, creating a supportive community where students feel they belong. Learning how to network and communicate with others has been a valuable skill as I prepare to graduate and seek full time employment.

Theater also presents students with challenges that help them grow. Learning lines, performing in front of an audience, and accepting constructive feedback all build resilience and confidence. Theatre is where actors, stage managers, directors, and technicians all come together to create something amazing. My experience working on “Grease” are some of my favorite memories and always bring a smile to my face.

For many students, drama clubs provide a safe space to express themselves creatively and explore different perspectives through character work. This can be especially valuable for students who may be shy or struggling to find their voice in other settings. Middle school can be an awkward time for students and the opportunity to gain confidence in their thoughts sets the stage for success in high school and beyond. It is the community’s support of school theater programs that makes it possible for students to become self-assured and have deeper empathy as they enter a new stage of life.