GRIPS Theater Classes. Growing Up with GRIPS

The Joachim and Anita Stapel Foundation supports long-term theater projects at public and private educational institutions in Berlin within the framework of the GRIPS theater classes. The aim is to promote linguistic and social skills of students from third to sixth grade through regular theater performances, workshops, and accompanying educational modules over several years. Cultural and media offerings are realized together with theater education experts as well as actors and directors to enable children and young people to have participatory experiences in performing arts. The program strengthens both the expressive abilities and the self-confidence of the participants and connects school lessons with extracurricular learning locations within Berlin's cultural sphere. Active involvement of teachers fosters sustainable social learning and creative learning processes in grades 3 to 6.

Applications can be submitted in writing at any time and require the signature of the school principal as well as the class teacher. The cover letter should describe the profile of the school and class and briefly outline the intended changes through the theater project. Teachers must commit to participating in free training sessions offered by GRIPS theater education. Additionally, a contribution of €10 per child (3rd and 4th grade) and €15 per child (5th and 6th grade) is required. Allocation is based on the quality of the project proposal, the expected benefit for the participants, and the willingness to engage in pedagogical further training. Both public and private educational institutions in Berlin are welcome as eligible recipients to sustainably strengthen children and young people in cultural and linguistic education.