Empathy in Performing Arts: How Drama Shapes Kind-Hearted Communities

EMPATHY TAKES CENTRE STAGE

My first grasp in understanding empathy was reading Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird. I was only 14 at the time, but the powerful words of Atticus Finch took hold; "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." 

In today's techno speed world, teaching empathy to our kids is more important than ever. Empathy—understanding and sharing others' feelings—is not just a nice-to-have skill but a superpower that makes relationships stronger, teams more successful, and communities more united. As someone deeply passionate about the magic of performing arts, I've seen firsthand how drama classes and theatre productions can work wonders in nurturing empathy in young people.

STEPPING INTO SOMEONE ELSE'S SHOES

Research is clear: drama and the performing arts help children develop empathy by letting them walk in different characters' shoes. Whether they're playing a brave hero, a misunderstood villain, or a quirky sidekick, every role teaches them to see the world through someone else's eyes. Studies, like the ones in Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, show that teens who participate in dramatic arts have higher empathy levels than those who don't.

EXPRESS YOURSELF (AND UNDERSTAND OTHERS BETTER)

In drama classes, children are given the opportunity to flex their emotional muscles. They learn to express a whole rainbow of feelings—from excitement to sadness to everything in between. This emotional fluency isn't just about acting; it's about reading emotions in others, too. When you can pick up on subtle cues, like a friend's smile that doesn't quite reach their eyes, that's empathy in action.

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

Putting on a show isn't a solo gig—it's a group effort. From brainstorming ideas to putting on costumes and delivering lines, drama teaches kids teamwork and respect. Everyone's part matters, and learning to listen, support each other, and celebrate everyone's unique talents builds friendships that are as strong as a well written plot.

EMPATHY BEYOND THE SPOTLIGHT

The ripple effects of drama go beyond the stage curtains. Kids who do drama are more likely to get involved in their community, whether it's volunteering or speaking up for what's right. By understanding characters on stage, they learn to care about real-life issues and take action to make their world a better place.

ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE

As we guide our kids through a world that can sometimes feel like a big production, drama and performing arts shouldn’t be treated as mere 'extras'—they play starring roles in the personal growth of young people. As educators, this core belief underpins our drama program at Upstage Youth Theatre.

As parents and caregivers, we play a crucial role in making performing arts accessible to children. So, what can you do to help? Encourage their curiosity, attend live performances, and explore local cultural events together. By supporting their artistic endeavors, you help create a nurturing environment where empathy thrives and lights the way towards stronger, kinder communities.