Frank Theatre has historically had an education program consisting of residencies, workshops and classes. The majority of our residencies have focused on a student demographic that is highly transient, and often have experienced homelessness, addiction and poverty. We had a multi-year relationship with alternative high schools in south Minneapolis, as well as an extended relationship (5 years) with a K-12 school in rural town in northern Minnesota. The pandemic slowed our educational activities, but we hope to initiate them again when we can.
Our residencies focus on using theatre games, writing exercises and storytelling to develop the student’s voice to help them tell their own stories and reflect about the world around them. Students’ writing and reading skills improve dramatically, as well as their observable social, communication and problem-solving skills. Above all, the students show an increased sense of self-confidence.
Our teaching artists have led groups of elementary and high school teachers in day-long workshops, and have taught classes to K-12 and college students. They are available for single day, week long, or extended workshops and residencies. If you’d like more information, or are curious about what’s involved in bringing us to your classroom, please feel free to give us a call at (612) 724 3760, or send an e-mail to info@franktheatre.org. We’d love to talk with you!
Watching this performance was really a capstone of the whole experience. It brought together the vision of Frank and MERC from the beginning. That vision helps young adults find a voice – a story within. It empowers them to share that in a structured way but also in an authentic way.
–High School Teacher, responding to her students’ performance
I always keep a lot of things inside and this – it brought up some emotions, some feelings, and gave me a clear vision.
–High School Student Participant in Frank Theatre’s Residency