Father Sez

I am not sure if learning and participating in amateur drama can be listed as a cool skill, but there are tons of advantages.

I never took part in school plays or concerts. And in University, I was in the Science stream, majoring in Physics. A major more associated with guys with thick spectacles carrying even thicker books and having their noses buried in these books all day and maybe even all night.  

Luckily for me, I had friends who, though were Science students, were also into drama. They allowed me to take a peek into this world. They participated in a couple of plays and I would attend their rehearsals quite frequently.

I got to meet their fellow drama artists and the others involved like lighting people, props people, costumes people etc. I enjoyed the easy and close camaraderie the group had and the seemingly intellectual discussions they had. 

I think the benefits of drama in shaping children have been well documented. It helps in improving vocabulary, reading comprehension, and other areas like building trust and self acceptance. 

What does drama have for those of us adults, perhaps just starting out in our working lives?  

My friends who were amateur actors were confident and articulate people. They had great people skills, mixed around easily and could always make interesting conversation. Though I did not know at that time, I now suspect much of this had a lot to do with their participation in theatre.  

They are using these skills to great use in their current carriers.  

One is a business journalist. His views are respected and he is often called upon to give talks to A-list foreign investment banks and fund managers on what his thoughts are on the future of our country. A task he does with such creativity and credibility that he has a waiting list.  

Another is holding a senior post in an ASEAN organization, where he meets with very senior Government leaders and talks about policy issues that should be implemented. 

Though I had the chance to audition for some roles, I flunked them. My two experiences with amateur theatre were being part of the lighting team for a play and being the stage manager for another.  

Is theatre impractical? Nay! says Gallaudet University.  

It lists the practical advantages of theatre.  

Better self-expression, creative problem solving, motivation and commitment, willingness to work cooperatively and ability to work independently, better time management, adaptability, flexibility and ability to focus under pressure, self discipline, self confidence and a healthy self image to boot. 

The Simple Dollar listed at the top of his 9 simple ways to stand out in our career, the act of “making presentations.” He implores us to volunteer each and every chance we get for an opportunity to make any presention. 

For those of us who fear public speaking, (and this article confirms that we are by far, the majority), SD’s advice seems like a death sentence. For theatre participants, it becomes more like a walk in the park. 

So if you have a chance, join a theatre group and become an amateur actor or actress.  Besides learning skills that will catapult you ahead in your career, you’ll get to meet new and interesting friends and have fun!

And be cool!