For Parents

So your child is interested in the theatre - what now? Or perhaps, you want to introduce your child to the theatre? You can find all the answers to your questions below.


1. Why is it important for my child to experience theatre?

Theatre is an expression of creativity that affects other aspects of learning. According to Emma De Souza, Development Manager at the Society of London Theatre, “An engagement with theatre sparks children's creativity and imagination; it improves their social skills, sense of teamwork and confidence – all necessary for whatever career they may want to pursue, yet skills that are not gained by sitting exams.” Furthermore, in a ten-year national study by Shirley Brice Heath of Stanford University, it was discovered that kids who are involved in arts-based community programs were:

  • Four times more likely to win an academic award
  • Eight times more likely to receive a community service award
  • Three times more likely to win a school attendance award
  • Four times more likely to participate in a math or science fair, and,
  • Likely to score higher on their SAT college admission test scores


2. How can I encourage my child’s teacher to get involved in the theatre?

 

Through the ATP LEGACY program, we offer various programs which aid teachers in bringing the excitement of live theatre into their classrooms. They can:

  • Bring their students to a Student Matinee. For more information on Student Matinees click here
  • Arrange a classroom visit where ATP artists visit your child’s classroom for a behind the scenes discussion about the creation of a play.

 

Classroom visits can be arranged through Anna Lake, the LEGACY Coordinator at kboulet@ATPlive.com



3. My child is still in high school and has indicated that they are interested in the theatre. What should I do?

Through the ATP LEGACY program, we provide Job Shadowing which introduces students to the intricacies of working in many different areas of the theatre, from Artistic Direction to Acting and Design. For more information on the Job Shadowing program, click here

Another option would be looking into the Junior Apprentice program that is available for students graduated from grade 12

Additionally, you could encourage your student to attend That $10 Ticket Thing which occurs once a show and allows any student with a valid Student ID card the opportunity to come see live theatre for only $10.00. For more information including dates, click here



4. My child has graduated or soon will be a high school graduate and has indicated that they are interested in theatre. What should I do?

The ATP LEGACY program also facilitates a Junior Apprentice program which provides an eight month opportunity to gain invaluable on-the-job training in a professional theatre company and guidance in obtaining further training or employment at the end of the apprenticeship.

For more information on the Junior Apprentice Program, see the brochure

To apply, please fill out the Junior Apprentice Application Form



5. What can I do at home to incorporate the theatre into our home life?

Some ideas include:

  • When you read to your child, be dramatic! Also encourage them to imagine their own stories.
  • Encourage your child to play dress up creating characters from stories you have read or traditional stories we all know and love.
  • Make a space in your house that can be used to make art, whether it is the garage, the backyard, their room or wherever, make a creative space.
  • Encourage your child to listen to recorded stories when they go to bed.
  • Dance with your kids. Teach them rhythm. Show them that expression is fun and nothing to be embarrassed about.
  • Sing together. Buy a microphone and record yourself singing.
  • Make a theatre date with your child. Experiencing a play together promotes bonding and an opportunity for post show discussion with your young one.

 

There are plenty of other ways to encourage creativity, plus it gives you irreplaceable time with your children. The most important thing is to show interest.