MOTH by Declan Greene Moth Education Pack FINAL | Page 18

SO WHY IS THIS STORY BEING TOLD?
You may have noticed in this pack that we have posed many questions for you to consider
about the world of the play and the lessons that could be taken from it. We are of the
opinion that theatre (and the arts in general) helps you to grow/learn, gives you insights to
different perspectives, and opens up a platform from which to discuss both personal and
global issues.
In fact, recent research from Australia Council agrees!
is being recognised by the Australian population:
The positive impacts the arts have
67% believe the arts help our ability
to think creatively and develop new
ideas
69% believe the arts help
64% believe the arts help our
stimulate our minds
understanding of other people
and cultures
73% believe the arts are an important
way to get different perspectives on a
topic or issue
60% believe the arts help
our sense of well-being and
happiness
69% believe the arts help our
ability to express ourselves
We discuss the impacts of seeing theatre and the story of Moth with our Director, Rachel
Chant:
“One of the strengths that I find in the theatre is its ability to tell people that they are not
alone; that their experiences are shared. What Declan (the playwright) has given us here is
two characters that we so rarely see on our stages - the outcasts, the 'losers', two kids at the
bottom on the social ladder. In putting these kids on stage, we're telling every kid out there
who has copped it, who is battling with the schoolyard hierarchy, that we see you. We hear
you. You are not alone.
In the rehearsal room, the number of stories of primary and high school bullying the
creatives have confessed to has been alarming; alarming particularly alongside the studies
we've read about the long-lasting effects of bullying on mental health.
Theatre builds empathy. If we can build empathy amongst young people for characters in
their own worlds whom they might consider the bottom of the heap, then we can hope that
this has an impact on the culture of bullying so implicit within the schoolyard.”
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