A trip to Broadway brings to life both educational and entertaining experiences. It’s not just about the spectacle on stage but the thought-provoking stories, the diverse representation, and the sheer dedication of the artists that truly make it a unique learning opportunity.
Moreover, Broadway shows can inspire and nurture a student’s interest in performing arts. Witnessing the talent and dedication of the actors, dancers, musicians, and production crew can ignite a newfound passion or reinforce an existing one. Students get to see the culmination of hard work, creativity, and teamwork on stage, which can be profoundly inspiring. They can learn about different career paths in the theatre industry, from acting and directing to set design and stage management, transforming them from passive learners to active participants in their own learning journey.
With this in mind, planning a Broadway day for your students can become an educational field trip full of both teachable moments (in the best sense) and fun.
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McKenzie Kurtz and the Company of WICKED – Photo by Joan Marcus
Choosing the Right Show for Your Students
Choosing the right show for your students is pivotal to the success of your Broadway experience. First, consider the age group of your students. Certain shows are more suitable for older students due to their themes or content. Second, relevance to the curriculum can enhance classroom discussions and learning. Lastly, review the show’s content for appropriateness and educational value. Remember, the goal is to provide an enriching experience that incorporates both entertainment and education.
Broadway offers various choices for student and youth groups, catering to diverse interests and learning objectives. Hadestown, a modern reinterpretation of ancient Greek myths, can be an exciting choice for students studying mythology or literature. This award-winning musical intertwines two mythic tales, offering a fascinating exploration of love, faith, and the power of art. Another option is The Outsiders, a gripping new musical set in the 1960s that grapples with themes of socio-economic disparity, loyalty, and the trials of adolescence. This adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s classic novel can perfectly complement social studies or literature curriculums. Wicked, a fan favorite, offers a fresh perspective on the world of Oz, challenging the traditional notions of good and evil. This musical can be a great choice for students studying literature storytelling or those simply interested in a spellbinding performance.
To further enhance the educational value of a Broadway trip, Broadway Inbound provides comprehensive study guides for several shows that can immensely benefit students and educators. These guides delve into the themes, characters, and historical context of the shows, providing a rich source of material for pre-show discussions and post-show reflections. Study guides are available for long-running hits like Disney’s Aladdin and The Lion King and newer shows like SIX, making them a perfect tool to connect the show with the classroom curriculum.
HADESTOWN on Broadway in New York
Enrichment Activities & Resources
Beyond the mesmerizing performances on stage, Broadway Inbound offers a host of enrichment activities that can significantly elevate the theatre trip experience for your students. Workshops conducted by theatre professionals can provide hands-on learning in acting, singing, dance, and even stagecraft. These sessions can offer a glimpse into the hard work and creativity that goes into every Broadway production.
Meet-the-artist programs provide a unique opportunity for students to interact with cast members, directors, or production crew. These interactions can spark insightful conversations and provide a deeper understanding of the theatre world.
These extra-curricular activities and resources transform a Broadway trip into an expansive learning experience. They provide students with a broader perspective of the theatre industry, empowering them to appreciate and engage with the performing arts more meaningfully.
Aladdin on Broadway is a great show for student groups
Planning the Logistics
When planning your students’ Broadway experience, managing the logistics is as important as choosing the right show. This includes transportation to and from the theatre, understanding the theatre’s rules and etiquettes, deciding on appropriate attire, and being aware of the theatre’s food and drink policies.
Getting to the theatre on time involves planning the most efficient route considering traffic and parking. Most theatres are conveniently located near public transportation, making that a viable option.
Theatre etiquette, such as arriving on time, refraining from using electronic devices, and applauding appropriately, should be communicated to students before the trip. Attire for Broadway shows is usually casual to business casual. Most theatres prohibit food and beverages outside but offer concessions. Planning for meals before or after the show can be a practical approach.
It is necessary to create a schedule that accommodates a pre-show activity, the show itself, and a post-show discussion or activity. This ensures the trip is more than just watching a performance, but a holistic learning experience.
Remember, planning and booking in advance can help secure the best seat deals and ensure your students a smooth and enjoyable Broadway day.
Making the Most of Their Broadway Experience
To truly make the most of Broadway, extending the experience beyond the theatre walls is essential. A post-show discussion, debate, or presentation day can be a powerful way to reflect on the Broadway show and deepen the learning process.
This could involve asking students to critique or review the show, fostering critical thinking skills. Encourage them to voice their opinions on the storyline, characters, performances, set design, and music.
Going deeper into materials adjacent to the show’s story can also provide more context and understanding. For example, if the show is based on a book or historical event, encourage students to read the book or research the event. If the show references a certain culture, explore that culture’s art, music, or traditions. Comparing and contrasting these sources with the Broadway show can lead to insightful discussions and a more comprehensive understanding of the narrative.
In conclusion, a Broadway trip can be invaluable to your educational approach, offering a unique blend of entertainment and learning. It provides students with a platform to explore various art forms, cultures, historical narratives, and societal themes in a fun and engaging way. More than that, it can inspire a love for performing arts, ignite new passions, and open up a world of possibilities in the theatre industry.
Broadway Inbound stands ready to assist you, offering various shows catering to diverse interests and age groups. Their comprehensive study guides and enrichment activities ensure the Broadway experience aligns seamlessly with your educational curriculum, proving to be more than just a field trip.
So, as you plan your next educational outing, consider Broadway. It’s not just about watching a show, it’s about bringing your students into a world of creativity, storytelling, and life-long learning. Allow your students to experience the magic of Broadway – to connect, inspire, and be transformed by the power of live theatre. With Broadway Inbound, an unforgettable Broadway experience awaits your students.
For more travel ideas and tips for enjoying your Broadway experience, be sure to Visit Broadway Inbound for more information and Subscribe to Student Travel Planning for FREE
