Taking the Leap: How Performing Arts Transforms Us

We all remember it—that first time we had to do something big. Something bold. Something far outside our comfort zone. The nerves, the preparation, the second-guessing. And then, finally, it happened. We took the leap.

And looking back? We’re proud.

Those are the moments that change us: they boost our confidence, stretch our limits, and open us up to new possibilities.

One of my favorite parts of my role at Dana Hall is getting to witness students take that leap on a daily basis. I get to see performers step into the unknown—audition for a role, try a new skill, put themselves out there—and then exhale. That magical moment when they realize: I did it. And I was good.

Curious about what these moments meant to them, I asked some students to reflect. How has art helped you find your way? How has it changed you? Here is how they replied: 

“When I decided to take a break from theater, I didn’t feel like myself or understand where I belonged in the Dana Hall community. Every time I would present, I always became cautious of every move I would make and the tone in which I spoke. I was playing a character that wasn’t me and felt like an outsider in my very own body. A year later, I decided to face my fears and audition for my first show in a while. I didn’t comprehend how much I lost my voice until I felt my highest after participating [in] my first production. While most may perceive joining theater as learning how to transform into different characters, it actually [taught me] how to embody my own. I can tell you now that my biggest regret in my high school experience is not joining the theater community earlier.”

“People should [do] Performing Arts to uplift their confidence, develop flexibility, and learn how to collaborate with others. These skills are not only important to theater, but you can apply them to any aspect in your life. It could be as simple as presenting a project in front of your class, or how [to] include multiple ideas into one creative one.”

“While being involved with Performing Arts, I have realized that we are much more harsh on ourselves and critical than anyone else around us. Knowing this has helped me develop more confidence and become more comfortable when working on areas to improve.”

In a world full of deadlines, assignments, and constant pressure, carving out time for something expressive can feel nearly impossible. But for many students, it’s those very moments on stage, in rehearsal, behind the scenes—outside the classroom—that give them the tools to thrive inside it.

I asked a few more students why they believe Performing Arts is important. They were eager to respond: 

“It helps in so many aspects—public speaking, interviews, improvisation, self-awareness and expression. And also, performing arts are found everywhere.”

“Because it is so important to so many kids. It teaches us so many skills like collaboration, creativity, expression, and empathy. It is also a safe space for so many kids and a place where they feel comfortable speaking their mind and expressing [themselves].”

“It fosters connection between students from different grades and backgrounds.”

When I look back on the moments that shaped me—those expressive, challenging, rewarding experiences—I realize: those were the ones that changed me the most. They built my resilience. They gave me a sense of voice and power in collaboration.

And for our young performers today, those same moments are shaping them, too. Through art, they’re discovering who they are—and what they’re capable of becoming.

Because in the end, the stage doesn’t just create characters. It reveals people.

And those people? They're finding their voice—and they’re using it.