Teaching Theatre: Inspiring Curiosity and Nurturing Creative Growth

As a professor, I bring my own history and passion for theatre into the classroom, just as most educators do. But I also recognize that my journey is not the one my students are here to follow. They’re here driven by curiosity, and I believe it's essential to hold on to that curiosity while guiding them through their own creative paths in theatre.

Theatre needs fresh perspectives and creative intuition to grow, and my role is to support that while teaching the fundamentals. Through my experiences, I offer lessons, but my main focus is on meeting each student where they are, understanding their unique goals, and helping them build the skills they need. Teaching through the pandemic taught me one thing for sure: keeping the inspiration alive is what kept students engaged and excited about the work, even through the toughest times.

For me, teaching is as much about the magic in the interaction as theatre itself. It’s a symbiotic relationship: the same way a performer connects with an audience, a teacher connects with students. My job is to share knowledge, develop practical skills, and encourage innovation, all while creating a safe and supportive environment. I believe in empowering students to take ownership of their education, but I also know that some students, especially first-generation learners, need guidance and mentorship to find their momentum.

In the classroom, we create an environment where students can grow, make mistakes, and challenge us with new questions. After all, teaching is about helping them discover their passion for the work—just as I discovered mine. Theatre is a privilege, and it’s important to be honest with students about the challenges and dedication it takes. But at the end of the day, it’s all about nurturing that spark of creativity so they can become the next generation of artists we can all be proud of.