Laying the Groundwork for Dramatic Results: ASSITEJ’s Next Generation

Abstract

The International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People (ASSITEJ) comprises theatre artists from all over the world who, despite the diversity of their backgrounds, experiences and artistic investments, share a belief that social change starts with children and young people. Preparing such artists for leadership positions in their respective domains is key to the overall mission. In this essay, I explore ASSITEJ’s Next Generation (NG) residency programs as a key facilitator of individual artistic growth that in turn will have impacts on the field of Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) both locally and globally, which in its own turn will have an effect on the children and youth who experience these artistic results. My hope is that this exploration offers a model for other groups and movements seeking to provide “next generation” leadership training as a means to long-term growth and sustainability.