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The benefits of musical
theater are enormous. The arts convey knowledge and meaning not learned
through the study of other subjects. They represent a form of thinking
and a way of knowing that is based in human imagination and judgment.
The arts delight children, but they are also intellectual disciplines of
substance. Like language or mathematics, the arts involve the use of
complex symbols to communicate. To attain competence in the arts, it is
necessary to gain literacy with these symbol systems. Some, like music
and painting, use non-verbal symbols; others, like poetry and song, use
language in particular ways.
Creative activity is also a source of joy and wonder,
while it bids its students to touch and taste and hear and see the
world. Children are powerfully affected by storytelling, music, dance,
and the visual arts.
We've always known that music is good for your spirits.
Now, scientists are confirming that it's good for your brain, too.
According to new research, active music making has a direct connection
to the brain's inner workings-in fact; the brain seems to operate
according to patterns that closely resemble musical notes!
Studies have linked active music making with better
language and math ability, improved school grades, better-adjusted
social behavior, and improvements in "spatial-temporal reasoning," which
is the foundation of engineering and science as well as enabling a child
to develop flexible creative abilities which surveys indicate are
becoming less common in today’s youth.
Dance education provides experience
in basic body movements, and maintenance of one's physical fitness that
provides carry-over to a child's entire life. Control is attained
through motor skill development, cardiovascular fitness and emotional
self-awareness. Physical education, just like any other phase of
education, is not restricted to only the development of its subject
area. Physical education gained through dance also contributes to the
social, emotional, and mental phases of the total education of the
individual.
Acting in a cooperative theater group also allows children to grow
socially. Experiencing acceptance, respect and trust from caring
adults helps children to develop these very qualities. Our
student-actors become responsible for their actions through awareness,
reflection, natural consequences, and the evaluation of the positive and
negative effects of their choices. We expect our actors to be
capable of self-discipline, focused attention, and independent
action. Students learn responsibility, commitment, teamwork and theater
skills while building their self-confidence and becoming better
citizens.
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