Outreach Programs
Outreach Programs
At BCT, we believe that arts education is essential for developing well-rounded, creative, and critical thinkers. Our pedagogical approach is rooted in experiential learning, where students actively participate in their learning journey through hands-on activities and collaborative projects. We emphasize the integration of theatre arts with core curriculum subjects to enhance student engagement and foster a deeper understanding of academic content. By incorporating state and national arts education standards, as well as STEM standards, we ensure that our programs are both enriching and educationally well-rounded. We also believe in the power of play-based learning and imaginative therapy, recognizing their significant benefits for students from all educational backgrounds. These approaches help to nurture emotional well-being, social skills, and cognitive development. Our Outreach Programs aim to make theatre accessible to all, fostering a love for the arts and enhancing educational experiences through interactive performances and workshops.
Offerings
Interactive Workshops
Description:
Hands-on workshops are designed to engage students in the creative process, focusing on various aspects of theatre, including acting, improvisation, and stagecraft. Workshops can be customized to include specific curricular goals and educational standards.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Objectives and Outcomes:
Develop new creative & critical thinking skills.
Improve social skills & teamwork among participants through group activities.
Increase self-confidence and communication skills.
Foster a greater understanding and enthusiasm for the arts.
Past Workshop Topics Include:
Anti-bullying
Self-Confidence
Conflict Resolution
Public Speaking
Relationship Skills
Self-Management
Self-Awareness
Building Leaders
Residency Programs - Customizable
Description:
Extended programs that integrate theatre arts into the school curriculum, meeting National and State Educational Standards over a series of weeks or months.
Duration: Flexible (typically 6-12 weeks)
Objectives and Outcomes:
To provide a comprehensive theatre education experience that leaves a lasting impact on students' appreciation for the arts and creativity.
To integrate the arts into core subjects, enhancing overall student learning and improving academic performance.
To promote life skills such as creative problem solving, imaginative thinking and expression, increased confidence, and collaborative teamwork.
To foster long-term relationships between BCT and schools.
Residency Options Include but Are Not Limited to
Weekly Theatre Workshops: Typically two sessions per week, within the school day or after school, focusing on storytelling, character development, scriptwriting, and performance skills.
Student-Devised Play: Creation of a play reflecting student experiences and imaginations, culminating in a school-wide performance.
Thematic Integration: Bringing arts-integrated learning activities into the classroom, connecting with English Language Arts, Social Studies, history, and/or STEM through thematic units.
Professional Development Options
Interactive Workshops
Description:
Hands-on workshops that focus on integrating drama, storytelling, and performance arts into the curriculum.
Duration: 1-3 hours
Objectives:
To enhance creative teaching strategies.
To foster student engagement through the arts.
To develop new skills in classroom management using theatre techniques.
Outcomes:
Educators/staff will leave with practical tools to implement immediately.
Increased student participation and interest in classroom activities.
Improved classroom dynamics and learning environment.
Custom Professional Development Sessions
Description:
Tailored sessions based on the specific needs of your school or organization. Our team will work with you to design a program that addresses your unique challenges and goals.
Duration: Flexible, based on needs
Objectives:
To address specific educational goals and challenges.
To provide targeted support and resources.
To enhance the professional growth of educators in a focused manner.
Outcomes:
Customized strategies and tools tailored to your educational setting.
Measurable improvement in targeted areas of instruction.
Enhanced teacher confidence and competence in using the arts in education.
Intensive Training Programs
Description:
In-depth training programs that span multiple sessions, providing a comprehensive exploration of arts integration.
Duration: 6-12 hours (spread over multiple sessions)
Objectives:
To provide a deep dive into the methods and benefits of arts integration.
To foster long-term professional growth and skill development.
To create a sustainable model for incorporating the arts into the curriculum.
Outcomes:
A thorough understanding of the principles and practices of arts integration.
Long-lasting improvement in teaching strategies and student outcomes.
A cohort of educators equipped to lead arts integration efforts in their schools.
Virtual Professional Development
Description:
Online sessions designed to offer flexibility and convenience while delivering the same high-quality content and interactive experiences.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Objectives:
To provide accessible professional development opportunities.
To enhance creative teaching strategies.
To foster student engagement through the arts.
To develop new skills in classroom management using theatre techniques.
Outcomes:
Increased flexibility and accessibility for educators.
Practical tools and techniques for virtual and hybrid classrooms.
Enhanced ability to engage students in diverse learning environments.
Why Choose BCT?
Experienced Team: Our outreach programs are facilitated by professional actors and educators with extensive experience in theatre and arts education.
Engaging Content: We offer a variety of programs tailored to different age groups and educational goals, ensuring a meaningful and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Accessibility: We strive to make our programs affordable and accessible to all schools and communities, regardless of their location or resources.
Customizable Curriculum: Our program curriculum and structures are customizable to meet the unique needs of your school or community.
Standards Alignment: Our programs are designed to meet state and national arts education standards.
STEM Integration: We are experienced in incorporating STEM standards into our curriculum, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
Expert Facilitators: Our programs are led by experienced theatre professionals and educators who are passionate about the transformative power of the arts.
Proven Impact: Our training sessions have been shown to significantly enhance student engagement and achievement.
Flexible and Customizable: We offer flexible scheduling and can tailor our programs to meet the specific needs of your school, district, or organization.
BCT is passionate about supporting the arts in our schools and community, and is ready to work with you to strengthen the presence of theatre arts in your school.
BCT Teaching Artists use theatre arts as an investigative tool to explore topics across subject areas. We work with you to take your curricular goals and create ways for students to explore the content in an imaginative and integrated way. With short- and long-term models available, BCT residencies are aligned with Alabama State Standards and are customizable to your needs.
Contact Us:
For more information or to schedule an Outreach Programs & Professional Development Opportunities, please contact:Director of Education Meryem Tunagur-Williams at education@bct123.org to begin creating a theatrical experience for your classroom and school!
BCT’S MASK POLICY
BCT’s Mask Policy for the 2022-2023 season will follow closely the recommendations set forth by the CDC based on COVID-19 Community Levels. When Jefferson County is at a HIGH level of community spread, masks will be required of all patrons in the Wee Folks Theatre and Playspace as well as for participants in classes; and, masks will be highly encouraged in the MainStage Theatre. We wish to avoid any outbreaks in the organization because a significant portion of our workforce, specifically our onstage artists, work without the benefit of masks. Behind the scenes, we will continue to follow strict protocols to keep our shows on stage and to create a safe work environment for artists and staff.