March is a special month to me as it almost marks the beginning of spring, but I and many others also take this month to celebrate how theater influences us. Ensuring students have access to theater in schools is just as important as opportunities for sports like basketball or football. Theater teaches how to cooperate with one another; it's not just about the star, but also about the ensemble coming together to shine. The community that comes from the cast and crew of a show is one like no other; it's a way for students from different backgrounds to come together and learn more about one another.
As someone in his junior year of high school, I'm so glad to have participated in theater since freshman year. Through theater, I feel like I've been able to find who I really am and what I really want to do. Even if someone doesn't see a career in theater in their future, theater teaches them about problem-solving skills as well as presentation and social skills.
Theater is something that has personally impacted me and has helped me to grow as a person. My freshman year, I participated in the musical “Matilda.” At that time, I was less confident and kept to myself more when it came to expressing myself. However, the more I continued on with theater, the more I felt like I fit in. I was able to connect with my fellow cast members and find my own voice. No other class or activity that I can think of really gives off that much of an effect to be able to bond with people that share similar interests.
Through my experiences, theater has a left a long-lasting impression on my life, and I want others to have the same opportunity that I've had. In March, we celebrate Theatre in Our Schools Month to advocate for the importance of access to theater education opportunities.