Drama has been a staple of many communities for hundreds of years, bringing people together to enjoy thousands of performances. But, in 2020, Coronavirus challenged the normalcy of everything–including theatre. Suddenly, theatres across the world were forced to cancel shows. Broadway and West End went dark. Beloved community theatres closed forever. Schools canceled their spring plays, leaving hundreds of drama students devastated.
However, after a few months, theatergoers and theatremakers alike began to adapt. Instead of forgetting about theatre altogether, those involved in the arts started conceptualizing and promoting new ways to participate in drama. Soon, throughout the middle of a pandemic, virtual drama and education were blossoming.
Although the transition was a learning curve, everyone began to adapt, becoming leaders in pioneering virtual drama and education. Even though drama is starting to transition back in-person right now, there are still many online opportunities here to stay. So let’s dive into how speech and drama are taught online to understand better the benefits of virtual drama.
Varied learning options
Theatre has adapted, and so have its educators. Virtual drama presents students with a variety of class and performance options. Likewise, drama academies everywhere have adapted and now offer lessons that have something for every child. Examples include private lessons, group lessons, masterclasses, talkbacks, and Q&A sessions, all online.
Improved accessibility
Speech and drama are most popularly taught in cities and towns with large populations. However, not everyone lives in an area that is close to drama opportunities. Additionally, for busy parents, the commute to and from class no longer has to exist. Fortunately, virtual drama class makes learning accessible for everyone, anywhere, at any time. In 2021, students from all over the world can participate in drama, whereas it would have never been possible before. Online drama bridges geographical borders, you could be anywhere in Asia and still attend quality drama classes!
Quality of instruction
Back in the days where drama only happened in person, teachers were expected to travel to their students, just like students were expected to travel to their teachers. However, as mentioned above, virtual drama classes have increased accessibility for all. Highly sought-after instructors can now teach students from all across the world from the comfort of their homes. This allows virtual drama teaching to maintain a higher quality of instruction online than in person.
Creativity and concentration
Problem-solving is at an all-time high when it comes to online drama. An online presence requires a lot of creativity to make things run smoothly. In addition, drama requires a lot of concentration, which encourages socialization and collaboration. This means that virtual drama can improve your child’s overall creativity while building engagement and focus.
Unlimited resources
The transition to virtual drama has created an increase of dama resources online. Between digital academy courses, YouTube, apps, and social media, there is now an endless supply of virtual drama opportunities online. Anything is available on the internet, from a video on vocal warm-ups to a theatre history documentary, and a lot of it is even free or low cost.
Ultimately, online speech and drama have many unique qualities that set them apart from in-person classes. However, both choices are fantastic options and provide opportunities for all circumstances. The world of online drama is just getting started, and it is never too late to get your child involved.
