Why We Teach Teachers: Reflecting on the FATE Conference

Last week, Orlando Family Stage had the privilege of presenting at the Florida Association for Theatre Education (FATE) Conference—and not just once, but twice!

Our team brought two unique workshops to the table. The first was Shadow Play Any Way, a joyful, hands-on session on shadow puppetry from Stacie Perez, our Director of Arts-Based Learning, and Nic Park, our Director of MicheLee Puppets. The second was Mind Matters, a meaningful, arts-integrated exploration of mental health and youth voice through the Pieces of Mind anthology and curriculum led by Emily Freeman, Senior Director of Development, and Jennifer Adams-Carrasquillo, Senior Director of Education. These sessions may have looked different on the surface (one had scissors and flashlights; the other had mindfulness and dramaturgy), but they shared a powerful through-line, the belief that when we pour into our teachers, we are investing in the well-being and creativity of young people.

Light Up Learning with Puppetry

In Shadow Play Any Way, participants learned how to turn everyday items, like parchment paper and flashlights, into magical storytelling tools. Groups collaborated to build shadow screens and puppets, then brought short scenes to life using simple materials. The room was buzzing with creativity, collaboration, and laughter.

As Stacie shared, “This was our very first presentation on puppetry and it was very well received. Teachers from across the state, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Palm Beach, and some of our local Orange County and Osceola partners came away asking for more. Some even requested an advanced version next year!”

Nic reminded us that shadow puppetry is one of the most accessible forms of theatre. It transcends age, language, and budget, making it a beautiful entry point for classroom creativity and student-centered storytelling.

Mind Matters: Art, Empathy, and Mental Health

Meanwhile, in Mind Matters: New Plays And Drama-Based Curriculum To Promote Mental Wellness In Teens, teachers explored a growing resource developed right here at Orlando Family Stage: Pieces of Mind is an anthology of short plays and lessons designed to spark conversation about emotional well-being. The group learned about the development of the program, read The Naming of Things by Eric Coble, discussed aesthetic distance, and participated in activities drawn directly from the classroom-ready curriculum.

Emily reflected, “Each time we share this resource with teachers, I’m thrilled to hear not only how much they love the plays as strong pieces of art, but how they recognize them as tools for real dialogue and student support.” And did we mention the curriculum resources are FREE to teachers? 

UCF Theatre for Young Audiences graduate student, Thea Tinawin joined our staff as a facilitator for the Mind Matters workshop. “As an MFA TYA student, being a part of the presentation and learning about Mind Matters gave me valuable experience and knowledge as I move forward in my program and research.”

We also loved witnessing the impact of the curriculum. During a drama-based activity, participants reading the roles of Ethan and Laila received “check-ins” by the other participants. The group was able to practice this social skill while the two actors in role expressed feeling a real connection and reassurance on behalf of their character. It reminded us how small theatrical moments can hold big emotional weight.

Why Professional Development Matters to Us

At Orlando Family Stage, our mission is to build bravery and empathy in young people through quality theatrical experiences. Sometimes that happens through a student’s first acting class or their first trip to the theatre. But often, it begins with a teacher, someone willing to bring imagination, vulnerability, and care into their classroom.

That is why we do not just serve students, we serve teachers. Through our professional development work, we empower educators with accessible tools, inclusive practices, and creative resources. Whether it is a puppet or a play about mental health, we believe theatre is a powerful tool for connection. And we are so grateful to the teachers at FATE for allowing us to learn and grow alongside them. 

Jennifer Adams-Carrasquillo, Senior Director of Education at Orlando Family Stage, shared:

“Professional development is not just about sharing strategies. It is also about building a culture of care and creativity. When we invest in teachers, we are investing in the emotional and artistic lives of the students they reach every day. At Orlando Family Stage, we see educators as co-creators in our mission to build a more empathetic, inclusive, and inspired generation.”

Want to learn more about our programs for educators?
Reach out to Stacie Perez, Director of Arts-Based Learning, or visit orlandofamilystage.com and explore resources like Mind Matters, or reach out about bringing a puppetry workshop to your school!