All of StageWrite’s programs are designed, created, and implemented using student-centered methodology. It is our belief that students learn the most from examining their own thoughts and feelings, and thinking critically about the world. This is the central tenet of student-centered learning, which is the cornerstone of our philosophy. We believe in theatre as a tool for social change, and a means of empowering students and communities. Our programs have all been greatly influenced by the teachings of Augusto Boal (creator of Theatre of The Oppressed) and Paulo Friere whose beliefs center around the notion of education as a tool for liberation, the use of co-intentional education (where both teacher and student work together to seek knowledge), active rather than passive learning, and problem oriented rather than single solution centered explorations in education. All of our dramatic activities within every residency and professional development workshop emphasize these important principles.