Nebraska Theater Academy helps students find their passion
When Broadway shows come to Omaha, kids from anywhere in Nebraska get the chance to learn from the pros.
When Broadway shows come to Omaha, kids from anywhere in Nebraska get the chance to learn from the pros.
When Broadway shows come to Omaha, kids from anywhere in Nebraska get the chance to learn from the pros.
When you live in a rural area, it can be difficult to have access to the dramatic arts and the educational opportunities they can provide.
We're highlighting a statewide program ensuring that kids can have the opportunity to learn.
Building self-confidence and learning how to be articulate: These are just two of the dozens of benefits that theater can provide for students.
"I also think you learn a lot about social, emotional things, about how to express yourself. And also, you just learn about other people. I mean, that's the beauty of theater is you get to walk in someone else's shoes," said Emily Mokrycki, the theater director and teacher at Omaha Burke High School.
Omaha students say the performing arts give them a chance to express themselves in a universal language.
"I grew up with a deaf parent, my mom, and for me, theater was a way to just kind of express myself when it was hard to express myself to my mom," said Samara Follette, a musical theater major at Nebraska Wesleyan.
Kids in rural areas may not get that chance.
That's why the Omaha Performing Arts created the Nebraska Theater Academy.
"It is a statewide program that celebrates and supports theater education and middle schools and high schools," said Taylor Wyatt, the senior manager of education at Omaha Performing Arts.
When Broadway shows come to Omaha, kids from anywhere in Nebraska get the chance to learn from the pros.
"You know, we never want geographic reach or anything to be a barrier. And so we do offer opportunities, whether in-person or virtual, for performers or students who are interested in backstage, as well," Wyatt said.
Teachers say the Theater Academy makes an incredible difference in the students' performances.
"It's one of the best things is so about collaboration and celebration. And you get your show adjudicated. So it's really great for us as a director and the students that they get that, feedback about their performance and their musical," Mokrycki said.
Program organizers say they hope to reach more schools each year, giving even more Nebraska students access to the arts.
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