Why teens should take part in high school plays

06 Aug 2019

The list of the most popular high school plays and musicals in the US for 2019 was recently released by the Education Theatre Association, four years after the first-ever database was published.

Every year, the most popular high school plays and musicals are revealed. This year’s rankings showed that the Addams Family play was the most popular, followed by Mamma Mia.

High school theatre is one aspect of school life and extracurricular activity that has stood the test of time.

Those from the millennial generation who took part in performing arts or theatre during school will fondly think back to rehearsals, vibrant costumes, singing, dancing and the overall fun and joy of taking part in high school plays.

Even those who can’t carry a tune or aren’t comfortable in the spotlight can take part in the backstage crew.

Set design, costume design, make-up, light and sound, writing, narrating and directing are all important facets of successful high school plays.

Well done to everyone involved in our Youth Theatre Summer School! What a fabulous performance of Alice in Wonderland! #youththeatre #winchester pic.twitter.com/pzSZPEgBSC

— Theatre Royal Winchester (@TRwinchester) August 3, 2019

According to Elissa Nadworny on NPR Ed’s Morning Edition, “Even though I myself did not bask in the glow of the high school stage, I do have fond memories of working behind the scenes, as stage crew. Dressed in black, I rushed the bed onstage for Tevye’s dream sequence in Fiddler on the Roof.

“I’ve also spoken with many people who weren’t involved in theater at all but can still — for some reason — remember the shows their schools performed. There’s just something about the high school stage.”

Here are some reasons why teenagers from all backgrounds, shapes, sizes and interests should consider taking part in high school plays.

Teamwork

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A theatre production will not be successfully pulled off without a strong team behind it. Working on a play, no matter what the role is, will teach students how to work collaboratively in a team.

Being able to work with others is a valuable skill that’s highly sought after by employees. At the college level, students are expected to work in groups and teams for assignments too, so it’s important to develop this skill early on.

Forging connections

Since working on a play involves a lot of rehearsals and practice, you’ll spend a lot of time with the rest of the cast and crew.

You’ll be able to make new friends with different perspectives and improve your social skills – which is exactly what high school is for!

Builds self-confidence

Taking part in high school plays will build your confidence and self-esteem. Naturally shy people are forced to come out of their comfort zone, and when they are given the chance to shine, it can really help overcome stage fright or provide a confidence boost.

For those on stage, being involved in theatre also helps them find their voice and learn how to speak well. They will improve their intonation, speaking skills and get over their fear of public speaking, which builds their self-confidence.

It teaches diversity

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A play is a great opportunity to teach kids about diversity and culture. In a play, there are typically different characters representing different backgrounds, and some plays tell a culturally-rich story which can open the minds of young teens.

Working with other students from different cultures, sexual orientation and backgrounds also teaches them how to communicate well with others – a valuable skill for the future workplace.

Builds their résumé

Taking part in a high school play looks great on a résumé, no matter which part you’re involved in.

According to CollegeVine, “Being a stagehand, director, or other backstage figure comes with important responsibilities and a set of special skills, and colleges know that these positions require hard work and an interest in theatre that matches any actor’s.

“As long as you present your involvement well on your application and highlight how it’s contributed to your learning and development, you have nothing to worry about.”