www.broadwayworld.com: Since its founding on September 11, 2001, Epic Theatre Ensemble continues to inspire young people to utilize their voice through performance to create social change and motivate civic dialogue. From school residencies to college, Epic is continuously building relationships with students and communities while producing bold theatre work.
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This article highlights just how powerful the medium of theatre is both as an educational tool and as a pusher for social change. Back in my hometown most of my work was in an educational theatre organization much like Epic, where work was student-created and about social issues then toured all around our city and state. This practice of engaging kids in political activism through theatre is both empowering and liberating. These organizations create spaces for kids to find like-minded kids, learn how to express their emotions through performance, and speak up to try and make a difference in the world from their own viewpoint. I also appreciate how they adapted to COVID, which coincidentally is very similar to how my organization did. Instead of being upset that things couldn’t be in person, this new way of creating is perfectly suited to being able to work with kids from around the country and the world. I really believe in the power of theatre education and I’m glad it is getting more recognition.
Epic Theatre exemplifies how theatre can be utilised as a medium for social change. I believe it is an effective medium for just that because of the emotional connection between art, artist, and audience–and Epic Theatre helps young people start to explore this potential that theatre has. I appreciate the move that Epic Theatre has made in terms of digital theatre–that is highly important in terms of accessibility and exploring what theatre can be in a digital world. Not only does Epic Theatre uplift performers, they also uplift the work of young people who are creating work related to public policy. Epic's Co-Artistic Director, James (Jim) Wallert says: "So, I kind of lead the process of identifying commissioning partners and lead the students on their process of creating that work. Also, helping to rehearse it, present it, and coordinate the tours of that work." The mentoring and platforming of young people creating evocative work is truly an amazing way to usher in a new generation of creators.
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