Bullying, sexual harassment, dating violence and abuse can have a devastating impact – young victims and witnesses have a dramatically increased risk of academic failure, unemployment, depression, drug and alcohol abuse and suicide. Parents and teachers often lack the awareness and resources to respond to these problems. Youth, who are often more aware of their peers’ problems than adults, can find themselves in a painfully powerless position, watching from the sidelines with no idea how to help. Youth and adults need more education regarding critical issues related to healthy relationships in a format that is interesting, engaging, and accessible.
The Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble is a unique and exciting program that SafePlace and the Creative Action created to address these social problems now, and to train leaders to generate solutions for them in the future. For over 8 years, the Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble has been touring schools, conferences and community events all across Austin and the surrounding areas to spark dialogue about teen relationships and encourage students to take a stand against dating violence, sexual harassment and bullying. This year we performed to over 3,000 middle and high school students. We invite you to bring the Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble to your school or event in Spring 2012!
Want to book Changing Lives? Booking occurs every Fall for the following Spring. To be on the wait list, contact the Managing Director, Corey Ann Seldon at cseldon@safeplace.org
Collaborating Partners for Changing Lives Include:
SafePlace exists to end sexual and domestic violence through safety, healing, prevention and social change. With more than 35 years experience working with survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, SafePlace is internationally recognized for its innovative and effective programs. The Expect Respect Program is the youth-centered prevention program of SafePlace, which supports the Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble. For examples of Changing Lives performances and other youth-led prevention projects click on www.safeplace.org/expectrespect.
Creative Action is on a mission to spark and support the academic, social and emotional development of young people. Through interactive classroom performances, after school arts residencies and community-based programs, Creative Action’s team of professional Teaching Artists inspire youth to be creative artists, courageous allies, critical thinkers, and confident leaders in their community. www.creativeaction.org
