The Aim of the Conference is to focus on and develop the value of theatre and other performing arts in formal and non-formal education. We will be examining their social and pedagogic function as art forms; as tools of experiential learning; and as a means of social intervention. Research across the world underlines the contribution of theatre and the performing arts to the holistic development of a person, the cultivation of consciousnessof active citizens and the development of intercultural competence and communication. In the light of this, we strive for the redefinition of humanitarian education, as a means of personal and social change. However, we are faced with the systematic downgrading and marginalization of theatre within the spheres of education.

In this context, we are called upon to respond to the challenges. The 2018 Conference seeks to provide a platform for productive dialogue and meaningful reflection among teachers, artists, researchers and academics, so as all together to take action in the present and to plan for the future.

The 2018 Conference and the 20 year anniversary of TENet-Gr

Over the years, TENet-Gr has been actively involved in the dialogical process and the practical development of the genres of Theatre and the Performing Arts in Education. It has done so, emphasizing on theoretical elements, academic research and the development of practice, through various forms and approaches in the national and international arena.The development of citizens who can perceive, question and challenge what's happening around them and who can oppose human rights violation, are our concern and our driving wheel. Issues such as curriculum design; teacher training; teacher and artist collaboration at school; interculturalism and social inclusion; conflict management and resolution; environmental issues; creativity; and the role of governmental and non-governmental organizations in the development of strategic planning for Theatre and Performing Arts in Education remain crucial and will be explored within the framework of the Conference.

Questions and areas of interest

In the context of the 2018 Conference, therefore, as a fundamental consideration and reason for reflection, we reiterate a basic question addressed to all those involved in education, policymakers, and decision-makers in the field of education and arts:

“Is the provision and existence of Theatre and Performing Arts in Education a utopian dream or is it recognized as a necessity for which we must work co-intentionally so that it becomes a reality?"

The main focus of the Conference 

- How do techniques and approaches of Theatre and the Performing Arts promote experiential learning?

- How can Theatre develop a creative dialogue between the formal education and the communityfor a school open to society?

- How can Theatreas a means of expression of the principles of Critical Pedagogy, assist in raising awareness so that teachers, artists and students may develop collective cultural action and praxis for social change?

- How can Theatre as a pedagogic method contribute to personal, collective and social development?

Key areas of consideration

- Theatre in Formal Pre-school, Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Education
- Theatre in non-formal Education
- Theatre as Pedagogical and Teaching Methodology
- Theatre as a means for social intervention
- Theatre as a research methodology in Social Sciences 
- Research in Theatre/Drama in education
- Theatre, Curricula and Education Policies
- Theatre for children and young people

The 2018 Athens Conference will address the above areas through a variety of approaches  & practices: Theatre as an art form, Drama in Education (DIE), Community Theatre, Theatre for Development, Theatre of the Oppressed, Theatre in Education (TIE), Theatre in the curriculum,  Playing Through Theatre,  Puppetry and Shadow Theatre, Dance, Arts, Movement, Music in Education, Audiovisual Education (Photography, Video, Cinema, Media, etc).

This conference is open to academics, theatre practitioners, teachers of all levels and all fields, university students and graduates of Schools of Education, Drama, Music, and to artists who work in formal and non-formal educational contexts. The Conference also welcomes anyone who wishes to contribute to the creative debate over the teaching, practice, research or the meeting points of the performing arts in all forms of education.

It includes:

- Invited Keynotes

- Paper presentations

- Working Groups

- Workshops

- Artistic events & performances

Submission of proposals 

Proposals for papers and other contributions will be subject to review by members of the Academic Committee. 

Important Dates:

1 February 2018: Beginning of papers and workshops proposals submission

1 May 2018: Conference Registration starts

15 May 2018: Deadline for papers and workshops proposals submission

10 June 2018: Successful applicants receive acceptance email (new date due to a very big number of proposals)

25 September 2018: Starting date for electronic selection of workshop sessions

NEW! 30 October 2018: Submission of final texts for PAPER PRESENTATIONS for the Conference Proceedings

NEW! 15 December 2018: Submission of final texts for WORKSHOPS for the Conference Proceedings

Pre-conference and post-conference events will be held in various cities.

Contact-Information: www.TheatroEdu.gr / conference2018@theatroedu.gr / +302106541600

Organization: Hellenic Theatre/Drama & Education Network (TENet-Gr)

in collaboration with the International Drama/Theatre and Education Association - IDEA