1). Confidence!

At Stardust, we aim to help every young person grow in confidence and develop at their own pace, stepping outside of their comfort zone in a safe and welcoming environment. 

Studies have shown that a performing arts education is proven to enhance both confidence and feelings of self-worth.

Increased confidence and strong self-esteem enables young people to face challenges in everyday life and unfamiliar situations. This confidence and ability to stand up in front of an audience and perform will stay with them throughout their lives.

2). Communication skills

Drama improves all forms of communication; verbal and non-verbal. Our sessions encourage young people to explore vocal projection, articulation, tone of speech and expression as well as communication through the use of facial expression and body language. Listening and observation skills are also improved through performing arts. 

Performing arts activities also require teamwork – group co-operation is essential as cast members work together effectively in order to achieve a common goal of creating a great performance.

3). Self-expression

Young people can explore and channel their emotions through their characters, movement and song. Participating in theatre gives the opportunity to express a range of emotions in a healthy, controlled environment – emotions that young people might otherwise find difficult to express and articulate. 

Learning how to express ourselves through performance makes it easier to express themselves in other situations; social engagements, school projects and even future job interviews. 

4). Emotional intelligence  

Having to ‘get into character’ teaches empathy and compassion for different characters and situations. Through drama and role play, students are able to develop an understanding of emotions and motivations, allowing them to relate to different situations, backgrounds and cultures.

Students are encouraged to empathise with the character they are playing, which develops their emotional understanding. The arts install compassion and tolerance for others – both important life skills to have.

At Stardust, cast members interact with others of different ages, cultures, beliefs and backgrounds, allowing them to explore differing thoughts and opinions. 

5). Friendship

Theatre gives cast members the opportunity to create strong bonds with one another – laughing, learning and growing together each week. Interacting with other like-minded young people in a performing arts setting is a great way to form new friendships and overcome shyness. 

Group singing also brings people together and is great for bonding – studies have shown that people who sing in groups are more connected to one another than those participating in other activities.

6). Creativity 

Performing arts allow us to be creative, which is vital to society. People who can express themselves creatively enable the world to move forward.

It is through creativity and self-expression that young people begin to develop their own identity and the performing arts are a vital tool in supporting this.

In Stardust we work on fostering mental growth by providing opportunities for trying out new ideas. When young people are encouraged to express themselves freely, they are able to explore their strengths and individuality.

7). Mental wellbeing 

For young people, taking part in performing arts activities can help with major life challenges such as exam stress or bereavement. In addition to this, they can also have a positive effect in reducing anxiety, stress and combatting depression. 

Attending a performing arts group provides young people with space for a social connection, creating a sense of belonging. It can also help to make them feel more engaged and resilient. 

8). Academic performance 

Studies have also shown that children who receive a performing arts education are also able to benefit from an enhanced performance in other academic subjects, like maths and English.

One of the greatest benefits of theatre is the constant use of the ‘memory muscle’, and the ability to improve mental concentration and memory.

It has also been found that young people who have developed stronger confidence and self-esteem naturally perform better in an academic setting, as they are more likely to actively engage in learning and have more self-belief in their ability to succeed.