PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
The three-day workshop, organised by the Theatre department of Doon University from October 13 to 15, focused on developmental theatre and social-emotional learning (SEL). Conducted by the founding director of La Po La Theatre in Education – India, Walter Peter, it saw participation of over 50 Generic Elective Course and MA Theatre students.
Speaking of the main objective of the workshop, the vice-chancellor of Doon University, Prof Surekha Dangwal said that it was meant to strengthen students’ social and emotional development (SEL) by using theatre as an educational tool.
Dangwal further said that theatre-in-education not only imparts technical skills to students but also helps develop sensitivity, empathy and inclusive thinking.
The University officials said that the programme had attempted to demonstrate that theatre-based classroom activities are not limited to acting; they are also effective in developing children’s self-confidence, team spirit, communication skills and creative thinking. The workshop focused specifically on the ‘Me to We’ concept—the transition from individual experiences to collective responsibility and coexistence.
