Blog | Peak Theatre Arts

PEAK BACKSTAGE

The Education & Resource Hub for After-School & Out-of-School Time Programs

Joyful Joyful: The Glue that Holds it all Together

Discover why joy is essential in youth drama programs, especially in out-of-school time. Learn how joyful spaces support creativity, connection, and confidence.

OST Professionals

Ms. A

Aug 54 min read

Process over Product: How Centering the Process Empowers Students Onstage and BEYOND

Explore why centering the creative process in youth theatre helps students reclaim their narratives, build authentic self-expression, and develop real-world skills they carry far beyond the stage. Discover how student-devised work in after-school drama programs fosters voice, confidence, and leadership.

OST Professionals

Ms. A

Aug 47 min read

Giving Students the Mic—Why Student Voice Belongs Center Stage

Discover why student voice belongs center stage in drama education. Learn how student-led creation fosters agency, confidence, and belonging, transforming students from performers into powerful storytellers.

OST Professionals

Ms. A

Jul 316 min read

Why Every Kid Should Participate in Theatre—Even If They Have No Interest in Acting

Theatre activates the whole child—mind, body, heart, and voice—boosting brain growth, confidence, empathy, and real-world skills that last a lifetime.

OST Professionals

Ms. A

Jul 3110 min read

What Makes a Great Teaching Artist?

What makes a great teaching artist? Discover why the best drama programs are led by educators who are not only skilled in theatre but trained in SEL, trauma-informed practice, and child development. Learn how PEAK Theatre Arts ensures every student feels seen, safe, and inspired to shine.

OST Professionals

Ms. A

Jul 307 min read

Jessica Alvarado: Community Arts Educator

Through PEAK Backstage, my goal is to make theatre more accessible and easier to implement for educators, families, and communities everywhere. As the founder of PEAK Theatre Arts and PEAK Backstage, my work centers on creating theatre experiences that nurture confidence, creativity, and joy in children across schools, libraries, and expanded learning spaces. -Jessica

Culturally Sustaining Drama Education for Schools and Communities

PEAK THEATRE ARTS

PEAK BACKSTAGE

Joyful Joyful: The Glue that Holds it all Together

Process over Product: How Centering the Process Empowers Students Onstage and BEYOND

Giving Students the Mic—Why Student Voice Belongs Center Stage

Why Every Kid Should Participate in Theatre—Even If They Have No Interest in Acting

What Makes a Great Teaching Artist?