Teachers Theatre Club

Photo by Kirsty Robertson
Photo by Kirsty Robertson

As an experienced teacher I have sought an opportunity like this for a long time now. This opportunity excites me greatly as it opens a line of communication which may help structure the types and choices of performances available to our young people. I work in a deprived area of Edinburgh and as a proactive artist myself and a full time Drama teacher I am always looking for opportunities for my learners.

—TTC1 participant

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Teachers Theatre Club (TTC) was a project run in partnership between Imaginate and Edinburgh Festival Fringe during 2019-2023.

TTC aimed to encourage teachers to see more live performance, develop their critical thinking skills, become more confident in discussing performance with their students and in turn, inspire their classes to do the same.

Each year, participants attended performances at the Edinburgh International Children’s Festival, during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and took part in post-show discussions.

As well as seeing performances, teachers had the opportunity to meet some of Scotland's key industry professionals including artists, designers, programmers, critics and production staff. Teachers took part in the project benefit from:

  • Sessions counting towards staff CLPL requirements
  • Using critical thinking skills in an arts setting
  • Enhancing the learning experiences of their learners
  • Increased confidence in engaging with live performing arts
  • Developing a network of arts professionals and organisations

Teachers Theatre Club is part of Imaginate's Inspiring Schools programme and is supported by the PLACE programme, funded by the Scottish Government, the City of Edinburgh Council and the Edinburgh Festivals, and supported and administered by Creative Scotland.