What People Can Learn From the Arts

By Rachel Reid 

I started out as a dancer when I was three years old. With tutus and tap shoes taking up a huge part of my childhood, I continued through high school and college while also picking up interests in musical theatre and choir. As a graduating senior starting my job search, I have come to appreciate how much I have learned from my enriching experiences in the 
arts. 

With modern society placing strong emphasis on the science, technology, engineering and medical (STEM) fields, it may be easy to forget the importance of the arts. Unlike the STEM fields, the performing arts provide unique, interactive experiences to audiences based on the expressive minds of its creators. The intrinsic value derived from the performing arts is irreplaceable and the memories shared are priceless.  Whether you have experience taking classes or simply enjoy seeing shows, everyone can get something out of supporting the performing arts. 

Here is a list of the most important things a person can gain from experiencing the arts: 

1) Dedication – The hours and hours dedicated to rehearsals demonstrate how 
practice makes perfect. Being able to commit to something and follow through to the 
finished product (e.g. a performance) helps you develop the important habit of 
finishing the tasks you start. There have been plenty of times where I’ve wanted quit 
after a long, grueling rehearsal, but the warm sense of accomplishment during the 
performances make everything worth it. 

2) Creativity – The concept of “thinking outside the box” is emphasized everywhere, 
even in the STEM fields. The performing arts promotes thinking on your feet and 
coming up with new ideas, which are valuable skills you can take with you 
throughout your life. 

3) Teamwork skills – The ability to share responsibility and work with others to 
achieve a goal is essential in almost any career. Members of dance companies, 
theatre companies, music groups, etc. all must work together to put on memorable 
performances and every single person must carry their weight to be successful.  

4) New friends – Are you interested in a particular dance class or a concert, but none 
of your friends will go with you? Who cares! Just go - you’ll meet people with the 
same interests. When I auditioned for Tapestry my freshman year, I didn’t know 
anyone but immediately made 25 new friends, which was very comforting to me 
since I was still adjusting to my new life in college. I even went to a Jonas Brothers 
concert by myself one time – I had the time of my life and I’m still in contact with the 
girls who were sitting next to me. It’s easy to make friends with people who have 
common interests! 

5) Appreciation – From an audience perspective, experiencing the performing arts 
allows you to gain a sense of appreciation for a wide variety of talent and styles. 
Attending performing arts events opens your mind and gives you new perspectives 
of different ideas. Even if an art style is not your favorite, you still can respect the 
hard work, dedication, talent and passion put into the piece.

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