Why I’m Thankful for Theatre in 2024

by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

With Thanksgiving upon us, I find myself thinking on what has shaped this year for me. Amid personal and professional changes and growth, one constant has been my relationship with theatre. This art form has influenced my life, both as a storyteller and as a human being.

Here’s why, in 2024, I am especially thankful for theatre.

In a world that often feels more divided than united, theatre creates spaces where people come together. Whether it’s sitting shoulder to shoulder in an audience or collaborating in rehearsals, theatre fosters connection. This year, I’ve been lucky to experience that communal magic firsthand.

I’ve seen audiences respond to stories with tears, laughter, and even audible gasps, demonstrating how theatre touches hearts in real-time. I’ve seen artists whose passion and dedication remind me of the beauty of shared creative purpose. And in an age of increasing digital distractions, theatre remains a uniquely human act of coming together, face-to-face, to tell and hear stories.

I’m thankful for the courage of theatre-makers who dare to experiment and take risks. Their work shows that storytelling is not static; it’s alive, responsive, and forward-thinking.

In 2024, I’ve seen the power of theatre to strengthen communities, particularly in educational spaces. As I work with young artists and designers, I witness how theatre brings them together in ways that transcend the classroom. They learn collaboration, resilience, and the art of giving and receiving constructive feedback—skills that serve them far beyond the stage.

I’m also grateful for theatre’s ability to create professional networks. This year, I’ve reconnected with alumni of theatre programs, who have used their theatrical training to succeed in various industries. These conversations remind me of theatre’s reach: it doesn’t just shape performers; it shapes leaders, innovators, and thinkers.

As we approach the holiday season and look forward to a new year, my gratitude for theatre only deepens. Theatre in 2024 has been a source of light in uncertain times, offering stories that heal, connections that uplift, and a call to action that inspires.

For that, I am endlessly thankful.