Rebekah D. Wilson

As a partaker, participant, and educator of the performing arts, I want to do my part in this world by sharing the beauty and reality of human life, exploring, analyzing, internalizing, replaying, and introducing others to this reality through Theatre. I believe that there is no better way to represent and express true, human life in its purest form. Therefore, in my classes and coaching sessions, I wish to inspire others to take another look at the human experience, and gain a deeper understanding of how people perform, both in real and imaginary circumstances.

Firstly, I plan to reach my students through the use of student-centered activities that will stimulate, challenge, and entertain. Students will come into an environment that is open, honest, and enjoyable. During each of my activity sessions, I tell my students that there is no pressure to be "perfect" or to be “correct,” but to grow through and learn from the mistakes and triumphs made through the process of play. Games, in nature, leave little to no room for inhibitions, fears, or doubts. Therefore, I want my students to experience moments of self-discovery, and at the same time, develop a willingness to take risks, to believe in themselves and the process, and to have a sense of drive, focus, and determination through healthy competition.

 

Second, in my courses, students will have the freedom to explore the facets of their limitless imagination. However, there should be a balance between releasing inhibitions and maintaining a respect for each other and the teacher/guide. The structure of the classroom/space should be one of both openness and order. To establish that balance, with the presence of the teacher/guide, students will formulate their own structures and consequences, and will be held responsible for their actions. 

 

Lastly, I wish to create an open, honest environment that strengthens the person within by creating a strong, healthy connection between students’ home and school lives. I believe that it is important for me to establish and maintain constant contact with students’ parents in order to evaluate where the child is emotionally and socially, and to track their progress. Parents often either get shut out of participation in the child’s learning process or are forced to make their own way in achieving a voice in the process of their child’s education. I want to involve the parents every step of the way, especially with elementary students.
 

To conclude, I believe students deserve to be in an environment that encourages creativity, openness, honesty and consistency; in achieving all these goals, the ideal learning environment of the performing arts will be accomplished. With this accomplishment, I know that both the students and I will gain more understanding of one another, and of the human experience, because although the teacher is present, everyone is learning.