This October marks our 25th year attending the Texas Educational Theatre Association’s TheatreFest. Over the years, what has stood out most is not just the energy of the event, but the remarkable teachers we’ve had the privilege to meet. TheatreFest is a place where drama educators gather to share ideas, learn from one another, and celebrate the role of theatre in shaping young lives. The relationships we’ve built here, with teachers who return year after year, remind us of the dedication and passion that drives theatre education forward.
Drama teachers are more than directors of plays; they are mentors who open doors for students to discover their voices. Some of our most meaningful conversations at TheatreFest have been with educators who share stories of taking their students to New York City. Seeing a Broadway show for the first time, stepping into the bright lights of Times Square, or participating in a theatre workshop can transform a student’s view of what is possible. Travel experiences like these bring classroom lessons to life, giving students not just knowledge, but inspiration.
TheatreFest itself highlights the many dimensions of drama education. Through contests like PlayFest, DesignFest, and FilmFest, students showcase their skills in writing, design, and performance. These opportunities prove that theatre is not only about being on stage, it is also about creating, collaborating, and telling stories in different forms. Just as a Broadway trip can broaden a student’s perspective, TheatreFest provides a platform for students to push boundaries and grow in confidence.
At its core, drama education is about much more than performance. It fosters resilience, empathy, and creativity – qualities that prepare students for every stage of life. TheatreFest is a celebration of that mission and a reminder of the incredible teachers who make it possible. And when those lessons extend beyond the classroom to experiences like Broadway, students gain memories that stay with them long after the curtain falls.
