Studies show students who participate in theater programs exhibit higher-than-average scores on standardized tests, making it more likely they’ll graduate and attend college. The theater arts also nurture critical thinking and communication skills — not to mention, it can be fun stepping into the shoes of different characters and worlds.

As Canyons School District’s five traditional high schools prepare for their fall musicals, the Connect Canyons crew sat down with Alta High Theater Director Linze Struiksma and two of her senior thespians, Kaylee Cannon and Taylor Fairbourn, to talk about life in theater and their upcoming production of “Hadestown: Teen Edition.”

“Theater is just like living honestly under imaginary circumstances,” says Struiksma. “Education is all about us learning and growing and becoming our best selves. I think that theater allows us to do that by learning who we are and learning from the mistakes and the successes of other people.”

Cannon says theater was a safe space that helped her to come out of her shell and realize more about her own potential. “Find what you love,” says Cannon. “I think there is beauty in everything, especially the arts and you should try to find that beauty.”

For Fairbourn, the arts act as a mirror to society and offer a little something for everyone.

“It’s a great way to tell important stories and share messages,” says Fairbourn. “I think with the arts in general, everyone can get something out of it. Even if you think it may not be your thing, everyone should try it.