My Drama Manifesto

This is the underlying principles behind the work that I do, where I do it.

Teaching about, and learning through, Drama and Theatre is very important. Drama equips people with the skills they need to make a success of themselves.

The concept of Drama plays a major role in our lives. We experience real-life Drama in the form of our own personal experiences. We come across the Drama of others in news and current affairs. We encounter fictional Drama in film, television, and theatre. The concept of Drama is all around us and shapes us.

By studying Drama’s impact on our lives and culture, we can begin to understand how Drama effects us and how we can control it to shape our own lives. We can start making informed decisions about all the Drama that we see, experience and take part in.

The study of Drama allows us to become intelligent spectators. We become able to can not only distinguish between what is good and bad drama, but also make a distinction between ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ ideologies as well. Drama can provide the motivation to start to check our own values and beliefs, reflect on them and make them more secure for the future.

Through the play and plays that we create, study or perform we learn about different cultures, societies and histories. We make connections between those and our own culture, society and history. Through Drama and Theatre we can begin to see our place in world, on a local, national and international level.

Through Drama we can begin to see how others perceive us. We can generate an idea of our own self worth and value. We can change and influence the way we and others see ourselves for the better. Drama is able to engender a deep sense of confidence and self-esteem.

Not only that but Drama and Theatre widens our perspective. It helps us to develop a greater understanding and empathy with others. It develops compassion for those immediately around us, our immediate local community and our society. It helps us to review, understand and improve the relationships we have

Working with Drama does not only involve using our voices and bodies but also emotions, creativity and risk. It requires peer trust. Drama builds communication, listening and cooperation skills. It helps us to understand how to work with other people. It helps us understand the importance of working together.

Drama helps with building self-confidence, speaking in public, and developing interpersonal skills. Drama and Theatre encourages resilience, empathy, engagement, self-development and good citizenship. Drama and Theatre helps us to be more aware how our physical presentation can affect the way people see us.

Studying Drama and Theatre is demanding, and teaches us that success only comes from hard work.

Studying Drama and Theatre both requires and develops emotional maturity. It gives us a deep understanding of ourselves. Drama has the power to empower you.