• 1. Enhances Communication Skills: Theatre allows children to express themselves creatively and effectively. Through acting, they learn to articulate their thoughts, feelings, and ideas, improving their verbal and nonverbal communication skills. They also develop the ability to listen actively and respond appropriately to others, fostering better interpersonal skills.
• 2. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem: Participating in theatre helps children build confidence and self-esteem. When they perform on stage and receive positive feedback from an audience, it boosts their self-belief and encourages them to take on new challenges. Theatre offers a safe space for children to explore their talents, conquer stage fright, develop public speaking skills and develop a sense of accomplishment.
• 3. Enhances Creativity and Imagination: Theatre stimulates children’s creativity and imagination. It allows them to step into the shoes of different characters, explore various emotions, and dive into imaginative worlds. Through improvisation and storytelling, children learn to think outside the box, problem-solve creatively, and develop a rich inner world of ideas and possibilities.
• 4. Fosters Collaboration and Teamwork: Theatre is a collaborative art form that requires teamwork and cooperation. Children involved in theatre learn to work together towards a common goal, respect each other’s contributions, and value the importance of teamwork. They develop skills like compromise, empathy, and effective communication within a group setting, which are essential in many aspects of life.
• 5. Cultivates Empathy and Understanding: Theatre exposes children to diverse perspectives and experiences. By portraying different characters and exploring various narratives, children develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them. They learn to appreciate different viewpoints, challenge stereotypes, and embrace diversity. Theatre helps children develop a sense of empathy and compassion, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.

Overall, theatre offers numerous benefits for children, including improved communication skills, enhanced confidence, creative development, teamwork abilities, and the cultivation of empathy. It provides a well-rounded learning experience that can positively impact their personal and social growth. 

Children’s Theatre of Annapolis (CTA) was established in 1959 and has grown to become a premiere theatre program in central Maryland. The 501(c)3 nonprofit organization mounts three mainstage productions each year and offers a variety of theatre arts education programming. For more information, visit www.childrenstheatreofannapolis.org.