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What Are Visual and Performing Arts?

Theatre has always been a great outlet for kids and teens, but there’s more to this art than simply acting. While taking the stage by storm is what most people think of when it comes to theatre, it can be broken down into more specifics like technical theatre and the visual and performing arts. 

Today, we’ll be dissecting the difference between the more creative aspects of theatre so you can determine which might be the best fit for your child. 

What is the Difference Between Visual Arts and Performing Arts?

When it comes to the creative arts, you’re often presented with the visual arts and performing arts. And while both are great ways for kids and teens to express feelings and emotions, they are two very distinct art forms.

What is performing arts?

Think of it this way, the performing arts are a way for someone to express an opinion or feeling through means of performance. This can include things like:

  • Theatre
  • Dance
  • Music
  • Public speech
  • Mime
  • Puppetry
  • And more

So, why are performing arts important? Performing arts programs can be extremely beneficial for children, not only as an outlet for creativity but also as a hands-on way to learn valuable life skills. Kids who participate in the performing arts are often quick thinkers and can experience improved self-esteem. Being a part of the performance process from start to finish exposes children to a new way of thinking and expressing themselves that can benefit them in the classroom and as they navigate friendships.

What does visual art mean?

The visual arts, as the name suggests, is a way of expressing feelings and emotions through visual mediums. This includes things like:

  • Painting
  • Photography
  • Sculpting
  • Drawing
  • Ceramics
  • Video
  • Architecture 
  • Printmaking
  • And more

Camps for visual arts are also beneficial for kids. Beyond being yet another outlet for creativity, when children participate in the visual arts they can also improve their motor skills, visual processing, and memory. Holding a paintbrush, stringing beads, and cutting with scissors all hone fine motor skills, which aids in things like learning to tie shoes, fastening buttons, holding utensils and many more daily activities, making the visual arts especially beneficial for young children. However, even older children can experience improved self esteem and assistance with developing executive function.

Visual and Performing Arts Summer Camp Programs

Now that you know what the visual and performing arts entail, you may realize that they could be beneficial for your child. If that’s the case, or if your child has an interest in the visual arts or performing arts, consider the Stages & Studios summer camp program offered by Brooks School. 

Stages & Studios is an immersive theatre experience for children interested in exploring the many facets of the visual and performing arts while simultaneously participating in a traditional summer camp environment. A team of industry professionals leads each program and lend their talents and experience to ensure participants are supported in achieving their artistic potential no matter if they’re new to the stage or more seasoned in the visual and performing arts. The wealth of knowledge to be gained from our teaching professionals in Stages & Studios gives students a chance to explore visual and performing arts as a craft of expression and creativity.

Don’t pass up this hands-on learning experience, get in touch with us today!

About Brooks School Summer Programs

Established in 1971, Brooks School Summer Programs has earned the reputation of New England’s leader in summer programs. Over the past 50 years, we have created a portfolio of programs for all ages and interests, including visual and performing arts. When you choose Brooks School, you are joining a community of alumni who have spent their summers here, creating memories and partaking in life-changing experiences.