No matter where you went to high school, your school probably had a theatre department. Maybe it wasn’t your thing, or maybe the theatre wing was just a little too loud (come on, we’re projecting!) Regardless of what you may have viewed the theatre kids as, participating in the theatre program truly changed my life for the better.

When I entered high school, I was insecure and timid, and I had difficulty making friends in the beginning. I was accidentally placed in theatre, and I was absolutely terrified of performing in front of upperclassmen that I didn’t know. But the class welcomed me with open arms, and it made me feel much more comfortable, knowing that I had people on my side.

I continued with theatre all throughout my high school career, doing all sorts of different things for the program. I performed in the senior directed one acts, helped behind the stage, joined the improv team, performed in the musical, and in my last two years directed two shows, one of which would win an award.

My four years in the theatre program certainly had it’s ups and downs. Despite this, I wouldn’t change a single thing. Theatre has taught me how to love and accept all different kinds of people, regardless of their past, and it has taught me that even the quiet kids can have a voice too. Theatre has shown me how to take charge and be a good leader; it has shown me how to make a difference in whatever I choose to do.

Theatre may not be for everyone, but the four years I spent in the program have truly shaped my life. I would not be where I am right now without theatre.