It is a misconception that Drama is a ‘soft subject’ that doesn’t benefit children academically. Drama supports and enhances key skills right through from early years, such as;
– teamwork and negotiation
– socialisation and empathy
– processing and sharing emotions
– resilience and stoicism
-creativity and development of imagination
– effective communication (speaking and listening)
With creativity and imagination being at the fore of all Drama work they are encouraged to question, pose problems, listen and understand.
Very often we hear about the benefits of Drama for improving self-esteem but we don’t often hear about how vital this release of energy through play is to their development and freedom of thought. Indeed, as adults we discover far more if we allow ourselves to free up our imagination and open our mind to possibilities.
The study of Drama can have a huge impact on language development (persuading, advising, debating, questioning skills), analytical skills (development of empathy and approaching the problem from different viewpoints), problem solving (evaluating outcomes), gaining deeper knowledge (through historical and/or scientific research) and teamwork (with few academic subjects emphasising the importance of collaborative input and compromise).
However, the benefits of Drama aren’t just confined to academic achievement. It is a proven benefit that Drama helps those with mental health difficulties, social anxiety and communication problems.
According to a report from the mental health foundation, 5 children in a class of 30 are likely to have mental health problems and 52% of 17 to 23 year olds have experienced a deterioration in mental health in the last 5 years. I have seen this first hand in the classroom. Children uncomfortable in themselves to such a degree they become balls of anxiety, even school refusers.
Social anxiety is also a fast growing problem with 36% of the global population said to be suffering since the lockdowns of the past few years, with suffers more likely becoming early school leavers, victims of bullying with fewer friends, and adults having more days absent from work and relationship difficulties. The cause is unknown but it has been accredited to greater social media usage , increased digital connectivity and more options for non-face to face communication.
So, why is Black Box Drama Co. the solution?
In a study taken by the NCBI (National Centre for Biotechnology Information) therapists reported several beneficial effects of Drama Therapy, such as improvement of social skills, regulation of emotions, improved relationships, increased assertiveness and self-expression and more resilience to difficult situations. It was found that taking part in Performing Arts activities can help with major life challenges which cause stress and extreme emotional responses and help reduce anxiety and combat depression. It can help boost confidence, make one feel more engaged and resilient and supports social connection which creates a sense of belonging.
Whether you are considering taking part in a Drama activity to develop confidence, as a creative outlet, overcome depression, gain performance skills for life (or just the stage), socialise with others and develop friendships or as a means of making yourself stand above all others and shine- you’ve come to the right place.
“No matter what job you have in life, your success will be determined 5% by your academic credentials, 15% by your professional experiences and 80% by your communication skills.”