SHINE offers interactive workshops that provide participants the opportunity to investigate relevant social issues through drama. The SHINE program's "drama-in-action" technique allows participants to personally encounter these issues while presented in a   "safe" environment under the guidance of a professional teaching artist.

"Process Drama", SHINE's strength, is less about performance and more about full, active participation.   In a fictional context, individuals are encouraged to express their opinions and feelings in many areas of life. Scenes are produced to enhance communication and critical thinking skills and cultivate strong decision-making abilities. Guided by SHINE's professionally trained actor/educators, participants also use interactive techniques and problem solving skills to explore options and make critical choices in simulated "real life" situations.  

SHINE workshops are designed to address concerns of various ages and demographics.   Some of the programs include issue-based presentations. In these sessions, participants view a professional stage performance and engage in a discussion about the complex social themes introduced by the drama. SHINE's programs support literacy by providing follow-up activities that strengthen reading and writing skills and other forms of communication by stimulating discussion as well interactive exploration and discovery.

Capitalizing on the wealth of experience in using drama as a tool for educational and social development, the American Theatre of Harlem's SHINE program has established itself as a pioneer in the field. SHINE programs depart from traditional approaches and focus on enhancing and creating positive environmental contexts and strategies - for youth, professionals, families, peer groups (e.g., shelters, prisons), schools, and communities. Workshops are thematic and tailored to meet the needs of each population.

The bonding of shared experiences and discovered common frustrations deliver outcomes in a community network that last well beyond the duration of the workshop series.

Program Offerings:

The Early Years - Interactive programs utilizing storytelling and other educational techniques that impact the way children (ages 3-5, 6-10, 11-14) view family, school and community relationships as well as building skills for preventing violence, drug abuse and other negative social behaviors.

High School Program - Uses drama to explore issues surrounding: Health, Wellness & Nutrition, Violence Prevention, Prejudice and Racism, Self Esteem, Peer/Family Pressure, Substance Abuse, Conflict-Resolution and Anger Management.

Parent Program - Workshop themes for this audience: Parent-Teacher partnership, Conflict and Anger Management, Addressing difficult topics with children, Media Influences, Teen Parents, Diversity Awareness, Stress Management, Discipline, Work-Life balance, Literacy/Student support.

Staff Development Program - These fun and non-conventional sessions are geared toward professionals.   They foster effective communication, conflict management and collaboration skills.   Topics include: Diversity Awareness, Team Building, Managing Difficult Employees, Improving the Work Environment.