Tennessee Theatre Educators Association: Supporting the Arts in Education

The Tennessee Theatre Educators Association (TTEA) has officially launched as a statewide organization dedicated to fostering excellence in theatre education. With a mission to empower theatre educators, elevate the role of arts in schools, and nurture the next generation of performers, TTEA is set to make a significant impact on the educational and artistic landscape of Tennessee. This new organization aims to empower educators, inspire students, and promote the transformative power of theatre in schools and communities.

The TTEA’s mission is rooted in a commitment to advocate for the importance of theatre as an essential component of a well-rounded education. By fostering collaboration among theatre educators, providing professional development opportunities, and supporting student engagement, the association seeks to elevate the profile of theatre education in Tennessee.

A Vision for Theatre Education

According to the TTEA’s founders, the association was formed in response to the growing need for a unified voice for theatre educators. “Theatre has a unique ability to build confidence, cultivate creativity, and foster empathy,” said Donald Fann President of the TTEA. “Our goal is to ensure that every student in Tennessee has access to quality theatre education, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

The TTEA plans to work closely with educators, administrators, and policymakers to advocate for arts funding and resources. The organization also aims to provide workshops, training sessions, and resources tailored to the specific needs of theatre teachers, whether they are in rural, urban, or suburban settings.

Supporting Professional Development

One of the key pillars of TTEA’s mission is professional development. The organization offers a variety of workshops, seminars, and resources tailored to the needs of theatre educators at all levels. These programs provide opportunities to learn innovative teaching techniques, explore the latest teaching methodologies, and connect with a community of like-minded professionals. By equipping educators with the tools they need to succeed, TTEA aims to enhance the quality of theatre education across the state. “Theatre education is about more than just performances,” said Donna Seage, a founding member of the TTEA and veteran theatre educator. “It’s about giving young people the tools they need to express themselves, think critically, and collaborate effectively.”

Through mentorship, resources, and collaboration, educators are empowered to cultivate the next generation of skilled, passionate, and socially conscious theatre artists. TTEA is dedicated to nurturing an environment where every participant can achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to their community whether as a performer, audience member or arts advocate.

Advocacy for Theatre Education

As educational theatre increasingly finds itself at the center of the culture wars, TTEA serves as a strong and unified voice advocating for the importance of theatre education in schools and communities. The association works with policymakers, school administrators, and community leaders to ensure that theatre programs have the resources and support needed to provide a comprehensive and impactful education for their students. By emphasizing the importance of the arts in developing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills, TTEA advocates for theatre as an essential component of a well-rounded education.

All-State Theatre Auditions

TTEA is committed to recognizing and celebrating the exceptional talent and dedication of theatre students across the state. Through the All-State Honors Auditions, the organization strives to provide a competitive and inspiring platform that promotes artistic growth, encourages collaboration, and showcases the highest caliber of theatrical achievement. 

Tennessee All State Theatre is a statewide audition process similar to vocal and instrumental music All State Auditions. All Tennessee theatre students grades 9-12 are eligible in four categories: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design/Tech & Playwriting. Adjudicators are faculty from over twenty five college theatre departments covering nine states alongside local professionals and the process includes a college fair for parents and students.

Project Connect 

TTEA is excited to announce a groundbreaking initiative, Project Connect, aimed at enhancing the visibility and support of Theatre Educators across the state. In partnership with ArtsEd Tennessee, TTEA has developed a coalition of theatrical organizations across the state to help build this unique community.

Project Connect is working to create a Comprehensive Directory of Theatre Educators in Tennessee! This directory will serve as a vital resource, connecting educators, schools, and communities to foster collaboration, share best practices, and support the growth of theatre education in every corner of the state.

In addition to full time public or private school teachers, Project Connect seeks to document non-traditional theatre educators and those isolated from other learning communities.  This might be a theatre teacher in a rural county that is isolated from other theatre educators, or a math teacher that picked up a theatre class, or an English teacher who produces a spring musical, or the education director of a community theatre.  

Theatre education is more than just teaching performance skills; it’s about fostering creativity, teamwork, and confidence. Project Connect ensures that every educator and student has access to the support and resources needed to thrive in this ever-evolving field.

“Project Connect is about building a stronger community for theatre education in Tennessee,” said TTEA Board member Edie Pope. “By connecting educators, students, and communities, we’re creating opportunities for growth and collaboration that will benefit everyone involved.”

Looking Ahead

As TTEA embarks on this journey, it invites educators, students, and supporters of the arts to join its efforts. Membership is free and open to all who share a passion for theatre and education, and the organization is actively seeking input and collaboration to shape its programs and initiatives.

“Theatre education has the power to transform lives,” said founder Mary Ellen Smith. “Our goal is to ensure that every student in Tennessee has access to high-quality theatre experiences, and that educators have the support they need to inspire and empower the next generation.”

For more information about the Tennessee Theatre Educators Association, its mission, and upcoming events, visit TTEA’s website, teachtheatre.net or follow the organization on social media. Together, we can ensure that theatre education thrives in Tennessee schools for years to come.