Improving English Language Competence Through Theatre

In 2015, CLIMB Theatre partnered with Learning in Style and Osseo Adult Basic Education in the Twin Cities area to use theatre as a way to improve English Language Learners’ confidence and fluency speaking in common situations.

“The response to these classes has been excellent,” said Buffy Sedlachek, director of the performing company for CLIMB Theatre, and curriculum developer for the project. “Our lessons have covered relatable topics: health care, dealing with school officials, interacting with landlords. We had one student from Tibet tell us how his landlord was trying to increase his rent without altering the lease, and that our lesson helped him find the words to deal with that situation. It’s wonderful to see how the program has benefitted people in their day-to-day lives.”