I have been going to live shows for as long as I can remember. I remember going to the Palace Theatre here in Manchester as a kid to watch kids plays. While in college, my wife and I used to go to the Providence Performing Arts Center, (PPAC), and Trinity Repertory, (aka Trinity Rep), for shows. While visiting family in Boston, we sometimes would attend shows at places like The Charles Playhouse, The Wang Theatre, The Colonial Theatre, and others in the Theatre District as well as theatres in other parts of the city.

As I got older, and became more involved with local musical artists as both a DJ and being in artist management, I began to develop a growing appreciation for the arts in all forms, and in particular, the young people who were involved in “The Arts.” And working with youth for the past 25-plus years, we have found ourselves at numerous plays at local high schools, colleges, and churches, supporting youth as they performed for local theatre companies, primary and secondary schools, and colleges. 

I personally like screen actors who are also – or have been – stage actors as they have a different demeanor and are skilled at acting in front of an audience without the benefit of a “do over.” Aside from my personal preferences or experiences, what are the benefits for young people who pursue the arts? 

I have written below some reasons why I believe it is important for young people to be involved in the Arts.   

The performing and graphic arts, encompassing a broad spectrum of activities from stage acting and music to painting, sculpting, and behind-the-scenes roles like sound engineering and videography, offer invaluable opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and community involvement. For young people, these disciplines are particularly impactful. They foster creativity, build confidence, enhance emotional intelligence, and promote collaboration. Moreover, participation in the arts helps develop critical life skills that extend beyond the studio, stage, or gallery, preparing young people for success in a variety of fields.

1. Creative Expression and Problem Solving

The arts provide an avenue for young people to express themselves in ways that other forms of communication cannot. Whether it’s through painting, acting, singing, or playing music, the arts allow individuals to explore their emotions, thoughts, and perspectives. Creativity is not just about making something visually or audibly appealing; it’s about finding new ways to think, express, and solve problems.

In stage acting, young people learn how to embody different characters, explore complex emotions, and interpret scripts in unique ways. They are encouraged to think critically about human behavior and the motivations of the characters they portray, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Similarly, musicians, singers, and composers use sound and rhythm as tools for self-expression, learning to communicate through their instruments or voices.

In the realm of visual arts, from drawing to sculpture, young artists explore abstract concepts and symbolism, pushing their own boundaries of imagination and technique. They learn to translate thoughts and emotions into tangible forms, enhancing their problem-solving skills. Art, in all its forms, challenges young people to see the world in new ways, pushing them to think creatively to overcome challenges and find unique solutions.

2. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Engagement in the arts can have a transformative effect on a young person’s self-confidence. The process of learning new skills and refining them through practice allows for a sense of achievement. When they perform in front of an audience or showcase their work in a gallery, young people experience a boost in self-esteem and gain a greater sense of personal accomplishment.

Stage actors, for instance, gain confidence as they rehearse and perform in front of an audience, learning to handle the nerves and vulnerability of being on stage. They must trust their abilities, often stepping outside of their comfort zones. Musicians and singers similarly learn to overcome stage fright and gain confidence through regular practice and public performance.

For visual artists, the experience of presenting a piece of work, whether in a classroom setting or a public exhibition, encourages them to take pride in their creations. The feedback received from peers, mentors, and audiences can reinforce their sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

The collaborative nature of the arts also fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork. Working with others in a play, a band, or an art collective helps young people realize that their contributions are valuable and that they are an integral part of a team. This sense of contribution reinforces self-confidence and nurtures a strong sense of individual identity.

3. Emotional Intelligence and Empathy

One of the most profound benefits of participating in the arts is the development of emotional intelligence and empathy. Whether it’s through acting, music, or visual arts, young people have the opportunity to explore a wide range of emotions, both their own and those of others. This is particularly important in stage acting, where understanding and portraying a variety of emotional states is key to the craft. By interpreting different characters and situations, young actors develop the ability to see the world from multiple perspectives, helping them to empathize with people whose experiences differ from their own. 

This emotional exploration encourages self-reflection, increases self-awareness, and enhances the ability to communicate emotions effectively. Musicians and singers also engage with emotions through the lyrics they sing or the compositions they create, while visual artists use their art to express complex feelings and ideas, often leading to a deeper understanding of both themselves and others.

Additionally, working behind the scenes in roles such as sound engineering or videography can deepen empathy and emotional awareness. These roles are crucial in shaping how an audience experiences the performance or artwork. Sound engineers, for example, must understand the emotional tone of a performance to ensure the sound amplifies the mood the artists wish to convey. Videographers, too, must have an eye for capturing moments that resonate emotionally with an audience.

4. Collaboration and Teamwork

The arts are inherently collaborative. While individual talent is important, much of the magic in the performing and graphic arts happens through teamwork. Young people involved in the arts, whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in the studio, must learn how to work with others toward a shared vision.

In theater productions, young actors, directors, lighting designers, and set designers all contribute their expertise to create a cohesive performance. Musicians in bands or orchestras must synchronize their instruments and voices, listening to each other and adapting to the group’s dynamics. Behind-the-scenes roles, such as sound engineers, videographers, and stagehands, work together to ensure that everything runs smoothly, often under pressure, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility.

Working with others in the arts teaches valuable lessons in communication, trust, and conflict resolution. It encourages young people to value diversity and work with others who may have different perspectives, skills, and ideas. This teamwork prepares them for success in any future career, as the ability to collaborate effectively is essential in virtually every professional setting.

5. Discipline and Time Management

Engagement in the arts requires a significant commitment of time and energy. Young people involved in theater, music, or visual arts must practice regularly, learn new skills, and continually refine their craft. This dedication teaches them valuable lessons in discipline, perseverance, and time management.

For instance, actors need to memorize lines, rehearse scenes, and attend countless rehearsals. Musicians and singers spend hours practicing their instruments or vocal techniques to improve their performance. Visual artists devote time to mastering various mediums and techniques to bring their creative visions to life.

Behind-the-scenes roles also require discipline. Sound engineers need to carefully plan and execute sound designs, often working under tight deadlines. Videographers must stay organized and manage multiple aspects of production to ensure that everything is captured as intended.

By balancing artistic commitments with other responsibilities, young people learn how to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively—skills that will serve them well in their academic and professional lives.

6. Cultural Awareness and Social Engagement

The arts are a reflection of culture, history, and society, and being involved in the arts exposes young people to diverse ideas and perspectives. Through plays, music, visual arts, and film, they learn about different cultures, social movements, and historical events, which can increase their cultural awareness and understanding.

Theater productions often explore universal themes such as love, loss, and identity, providing opportunities for young people to engage with stories that reflect their own experiences or introduce them to new ideas. Music is another powerful tool for connecting with different cultures, with genres from around the world offering unique insights into various traditions and histories.

Furthermore, the arts often serve as a platform for social change, with artists using their work to raise awareness about important issues such as inequality, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Young people involved in the arts can become advocates for positive change, using their creative talents to inspire and influence others.

7. Career Opportunities and Lifelong Skills

Participation in the arts also opens up a world of potential career opportunities. While some young people may pursue professional careers in acting, music, or visual arts, others may choose to explore related fields, such as film production, sound engineering, graphic design, or art direction. The arts equip them with transferable skills such as communication, creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency, which are valuable in a wide range of careers.

Moreover, the experience gained through arts programs, performances, or exhibitions can help young people build a strong portfolio or resume, increasing their chances of securing internships, scholarships, or jobs in creative industries. For those who choose to pursue a career in the arts, early involvement provides the foundation for a fulfilling and dynamic career.

Conclusion

The benefits of young people being involved in the performing and graphic arts are vast and profound. From fostering creativity and problem-solving skills to building confidence, emotional intelligence, and teamwork, the arts provide a powerful platform for personal growth and self-expression. Participation in the arts helps young people develop essential life skills such as discipline, time management, and collaboration, while also promoting cultural awareness and social engagement. Furthermore, the arts open up career opportunities in a variety of creative fields, offering young people the chance to turn their passions into professions.

Ultimately, the performing and graphic arts are not just an extracurricular activity but a transformative experience that nurtures the development of young people into well-rounded, empathetic, and creative individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society. 

Let’s all take some time and support the arts in the coming year! Go to a stage show, attend a concert, go to a museum, or attend a graphic or studio artist’s exhibit. There are numerous ways to show our support! 

I hope that you have enjoyed my ramblings throughout 2024, and that you’ll continue to read in 2025. I want to thank you all for your support and hope that each and every one of you enjoys your Christmas and holiday season! See you in 2025!

As always, please feel free to reach out to me via email at [email protected].