Grades 9-12  •  Colonia, New Jersey

Social Issues Theater

Every few weeks, the approximately 30 student actors of Colonia High School's Social Issues Theater visit nearby elementary schools to perform. What makes these performances so special is that they are written by the student actors and address important social issues such as bullying. The student actors begin by researching the assigned social issue. They then develop activities appropriate for their elementary school audiences that will measure the impact of their performances. Notably, analyses of the results of these pre- and post-test activities reveal a 95% improvement in the elementary students' understanding of the social issue being addressed by the actors. Finally, the theater students write, rehearse, and perform their original play. This unique service-learning program offers students an opportunity to use their academic skills beyond the classroom to make a difference in the lives of others. "Social Issues Theater is the perfect combination of learning and having fun .... It makes us feel important, because these kids really look up to us and show us that we can make a difference even though we're a small group of teenagers," reflected one student actor.