Children's perceptions of live arts performances: A longitudinal study

Abstract

'Children's Voices' is a longitudinal research project to document and understand children's perceptions of live arts performance and the impact on their teachers and school communities. The research conducted in South Australia with 135 5-12-year-olds in four schools involves collaboration between the South Australian Department of Education and Children's Services (DECS), Windmill Performing Arts and de Lissa Institute for Early Childhood and Family Studies, University of South Australia (UniSA). The children attend three arts performances per year at the Festival Theatre, Adelaide. This paper reports on children's views after 12 months, their interest in various aspects of the arts and performance and the effects on teachers, parents and school communities. © 2005 Taylor & Francis Group Ltd.