In the bustling world of education, where the focus often veers toward standardized tests and academic achievements, the significance of the arts can sometimes be overshadowed. However, delving into a dialogue with Mr. Stephen Innocenzi, a passionate theater teacher at Bergen Arts and Science Charter High School, unveils the profound impact that theater and the arts have on the holistic development of students.
Mr. Innocenzi’s journey has been deeply influenced by his belief in the intrinsic importance of the arts. With over a decade of experience as a Theatre Teacher, his hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. His passion for teaching has earned him the prestigious title of Bergen ASCS High’s 2021-2022 Teacher of the Year.
He emphasizes, “Arts are important; they preserve in people a fascination with the world.” In a society where the allure of technology often eclipses appreciation for artistic endeavors, educators like Mr. Innocenzi play a pivotal role in ensuring that students are exposed to the rich tapestry of human expression that the arts offer.
“Arts are important; they preserve in people a fascination with the world.”
Theater, as Mr. Innocenzi highlights, is a venerable art form that has endured through millennia, serving as a mirror to human existence. It encapsulates stories that reflect our triumphs, struggles, and the essence of what it means to be human.
By introducing students to the foundations of art history and fostering a deep respect for the artist’s craft, educators cultivate an environment where the arts are not just revered but celebrated.
Beyond the confines of the stage, theater education facilitates the development of essential life skills. “Theater teaches you to respect everyone, to facilitate everyone, to nurture everyone,” Mr. Innocenzi says.
Students engaged in theater learn empathy, critical thinking, and confidence – attributes that transcend the boundaries of the stage and are indispensable in navigating the complexities of the world.
Moreover, theater serves as a catalyst for community-building and fostering a sense of belonging among students. Whether they are performing, working behind the scenes, or sitting in the audience, students become part of a cohesive unit, bound by a shared passion for the arts. This sense of camaraderie extends beyond the school years, creating enduring connections that withstand the test of time.
“Theater teaches you to respect everyone, to facilitate everyone, to nurture everyone.”
One poignant example shared by Mr. Innocenzi illustrates the transformative power of theater in a student’s life. A once troubled student found her calling as a stage manager, blossoming into a confident leader who orchestrated productions with finesse. Through her involvement in theater, she not only improved academically, but also discovered her innate abilities and found a sense of purpose.
As Mr. Innocenzi poignantly states, “Theater is one thing where it’s not what you get out of it. It’s what are you willing to give.”
Theater education instills in students a profound sense of agency – the realization that they possess unique talents and contributions that can shape their futures and impact the world around them.
In essence, the study of theater and arts in education is not merely about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing the human spirit, fostering creativity, and instilling a lifelong appreciation for the arts and culture. As Mr. Innocenzi eloquently puts it, “It’s a signpost to where we’re going and a mirror to who we are. And we need that now, we need a true assessment of who we are and what we’re doing.”
