Spiritual Literacies-Elisabeh

Theatre is by nature a collaborative art. This allows us to teach "spiritual principles," in a way that connects to humanity in general, rather then any specific religion. It allows us to learn how to work together. In creating art as a group, we learn to see others' strengths, and to value their differences in perspective. We can focus on this learning in a classroom by putting people in groups with people that they do not know well, but asking students to point out others' successes and strengths, and by accepting and drawing on multiple perspectives and backgrounds in the classroom. If we create an environment of respect and trust, we can show students how to work with and respect others who are not like them. The theatre we teach can focus on different perspectives, cultures and ideas then ones commonly held in the classroom, and explore what is valuable in these ideas. There will always be differences of opinion, but if we focus on what is held in common, and what makes the other ideas unique and interesting and beautiful, we can teach unity and respect.

Another topic theatre can teach is humility. This is an area we need to be careful with as teachers, because we do not want students feeling like they have nothing to offer or that they or their work is useless, because that is never true. But learning to listen to constructive criticism improves art and improves ability to function in a world that constantly has something to say about us and what we do. Teaching students how to make useful comments, making sure they see the good as well as what needs to be improved, and teaching struggles as opportunities to create great art can help students learn to listen to others, as well as see the value in what they do and in what others do.