Stephanie Dawn Greene-Back-to-the-wall Theatre
I founded Back-to-the-wall theatre in 2011 with a goal of creating a place where original plays and classics could be produced, as well as a theatre enrichment and education program that was not as focused on the end show or result, but more on how the process changes YOU. The Acting for Life program, was born of this concept of process-oriented theatre. So far, my focus has been on the educational component. I have enjoyed sharing what I learned in the theatre with my students, so here it is, in a nutshell!
I have been in the theatre since I was 10 years old. It was through the magic of theatre that I learned how to read people, read a room.
I learned how to study my own body and voice, and how body language relates to intention and anxiety. It became easier to see these things in other people.
I learned the difference between awareness and judgement. I learned that judgement is not productive.
I learned how to relax, de-stress and breathe.
I learned how not to be embarrassed or self-conscious.
I learned how to roll with the punches. If I get thrown off track, I take my moment to re calibrate and recover quickly.
I learned to keep my perspective of the big picture and not act on petty thoughts. The show must go on, and it is a collaborative effort!
I learned respect for language.
I learned how to express myself clearly & effectively.
All these tools are essential for public speaking, negotiating, recognizing aggressive or deceitful behavior, dealing with adversity, overcoming obstacles, and being able to express your feelings and articulate your position.
In short, I have been teaching for 12 years, and everything valuable I learned, I learned in the theatre.
Acting for Life teaches these skills to young people, through a tiered, merit-based program. We believe we can create better citizens through theatre. Come join us!
My personal artistic goal is to create original, theatrical experiences with a focus on social justice and a shout out to the classics. The children are our future, so we want to give them essential tools for living life…and why not use a theatre as our classroom??
