The London stage production of Wicked has unveiled a new, free, on-demand Anti-Bullying Workshop as part of its social education program, Wicked Active Learning. This 30-minute workshop, which delves into themes central to the musical such as self-esteem, discrimination, and identity, is available to all UK schools. It has been developed in collaboration with Starling Arts and the Anti-Bullying Alliance.
Led by Anna Shields and Emily Garsin from Starling Arts, the workshop is tailored for Key Stage 2 (KS2) and supports PSHE and Citizenship education. This interactive experience aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools to combat bullying, fostering a more inclusive and understanding school environment.
Michael McCabe, executive producer of Wicked in the UK, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative: “We’re very proud to launch this free Anti-Bullying Workshop experience to support PSHE and Citizenship teaching and anti-bullying strategies. Filmed on stage at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and developed with the Anti-Bullying Alliance and our official workshop provider, Starling Arts, we’re pleased to make this Key Stage 2 resource freely available to every school in the UK via our Wicked Active Learning education program.”
Martha Evans, director of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, emphasized the significance of the workshop: “Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Wicked’s narrative lies a powerful message: the journey towards acceptance, empowerment, and friendship. By weaving themes of Wicked into this educational anti-bullying experience, we aim to empower students to stand tall against bullying in all its forms.”
Anna Shields and Emily Garsin from Starling Arts shared their pride in the collaboration: “Starling Arts is honored to play a part alongside Wicked Active Learning in equipping students with the knowledge and tools to combat bullying. This on-demand digital workshop complements our official Wicked in-person workshops, which bring the world of Wicked into schools and youth groups across the country.”
In addition to the on-demand workshop, Wicked Active Learning offers in-person workshops on Anti-Bullying, Wellbeing, and Musical Theatre. These workshops are delivered in schools or central London venues by experienced practitioners from Starling Arts. The Wellbeing workshop is also adaptable for teachers and school staff. Access to the video can be found via the Wicked Active Learning website.
The Role of Theatre in Boosting Self-Esteem
Theatre can be a powerful tool for building self-esteem in young people. Participating in theatrical activities allows students to explore different aspects of their personalities in a safe and supportive environment. They learn to express themselves creatively and confidently, which can translate to improved self-esteem and self-worth in their everyday lives.
Engaging in theatre also helps students develop empathy by stepping into the shoes of various characters. This practice fosters a deeper understanding of others’ perspectives and experiences, which is crucial for developing strong, positive relationships. Moreover, the collaborative nature of theatre productions teaches valuable teamwork and communication skills, further enhancing self-confidence.
Finally, theatre provides a sense of achievement and pride. Successfully performing in front of an audience or contributing to a production behind the scenes offers a tangible sense of accomplishment. This success can bolster a student’s confidence, encouraging them to tackle new challenges both in and out of the classroom. Through these experiences, theatre can significantly contribute to the personal growth and self-esteem of young individuals.
