From Classroom to Curtain: An ELA Teacher’s Journey to an MFA in Theatre

As an English Language Arts teacher, my life revolves around words—their beauty, power, and ability to connect people. But recently, I’ve embarked on a journey to deepen my understanding of storytelling in a new way by pursuing an MFA in Theatre. Balancing courses in playscript analysis, theatre history, and acting and directing with my teaching career has been both exhilarating and eye-opening.  

Playscript Analysis: Finding the Heart of a Story
 
In my ELA classroom, I teach students how to analyze novels, poems, and essays, but plays are a different beast. Playscript analysis has pushed me to read scripts for their words and what lies between them—the subtext, the rhythms, and the silences. 

This class has transformed the way I approach literature in my classroom. 

Theatre History: Understanding Context
 
My course in theatre history has been a deep dive into the cultural and social forces that shape dramatic literature. From Greek tragedy to contemporary plays, I’ve realized how theater reflects and challenges its society. This perspective has enriched my ELA lessons by giving me tools to help students see connections between literature and history. 

Acting and Directing: Embodying the Story

The acting and directing courses have been the most challenging—and transformative. As a teacher, I’m used to guiding others, but stepping into an actor’s shoes has required vulnerability. Exploring characters physically and emotionally has taught me to connect with stories viscerally. Directing, on the other hand, has shown me how collaboration brings a vision to life, teaching me to trust others’ interpretations while staying true to the story’s core.  

The Intersection of Theatre and ELA  
This MFA journey has shown me that teaching ELA and studying theatre isn’t so different. Both disciplines are about storytelling and helping others find their voice. Whether in the classroom or the rehearsal room, my goal is to foster a space where words come alive and inspire.  

Pursuing an MFA while teaching isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. It reminds me daily why I fell in love with stories in the first place and how transformative they can be. My advice for anyone considering a leap like this is simple: take it. Your students—and you—will be better for it.  

Are you a teacher exploring a creative path or a theatre artist reflecting on your journey? I’d love to hear your thoughts—let’s keep the conversation going!