How Performing Arts Classes Can Change Your Life as an Adult

At A Mind Apart, we’ve welcomed people from all walks of life and every age group into our classes. The positive effects of performing arts don’t have an age limit. Whether you’re singing, dancing, trying your hand at improv comedy, or exploring devised theatre, the benefits reach far beyond childhood and adolescence.

Much of the conversation around performing arts focuses on children and young people. We often celebrate how the arts help children grow in confidence, express themselves, and support their mental health. But the journey doesn’t end when you become an adult. In fact, staying involved in the arts as you get older brings its own set of rewards.

If you've been wondering about trying out something new, or took drama at school and have a secret burning desire to get into acting, here are a few ways that you can benefit from performing arts as an adult:

Rediscover Playfulness

Remember when your imagination could turn a walk to school into a mountain adventure? Or when the back garden transformed into a stage for epic stories? As adults, daily routines and responsibilities can crowd out that creative spark. Performing arts invite you to reconnect with that sense of play. You get the chance to let your imagination run free, break down barriers, and enjoy creative freedom again. But the benefit doesn't stop there, for those that have stressful jobs or are managers, it's a great way to re-open the creative part of your brain on a daily basis. Once you engage your creative brain it becomes easier to solve problems, manage stress and create clarity for decision making. There really is something quite magical about it.

Build Connection and Community

Many adults experience loneliness or feel disconnected as life changes and old friendship circles fade. Performing arts classes create space for genuine connection. Working together on a scene or performance helps people open up, share experiences, and build new friendships. That sense of belonging can make a real difference.

Growing Confidence

Parents often sign up their children for drama or dance to help them gain confidence. Adults can benefit in the same way. Standing up in front of others, sharing your voice, and taking creative risks all help you build self-assurance, which of course can always help you in the workplace. If you missed out on this as a child, it’s never too late to start.

Performing arts welcome everyone, no matter your background or experience. In the right space, they offer a supportive and uplifting environment. Many adults find the experience both therapeutic and energising.

Reducing Stress and Boosting Wellbeing

Creative activities are a great way to let off steam after a busy day. Focusing on movement, music, or storytelling takes your mind off daily worries and gives you a healthy outlet for stress. Many people find that regular classes help them feel more relaxed and positive. Whilst your focusing on playing a character or remembering steps, movements or lines, it's very difficult to be worrying about stresses outside of the room.

Improving Communication Skills

Performing arts put you in situations where you need to listen, respond, and work as part of a team. These skills carry over into everyday life, making it easier to express yourself clearly and connect with others, whether at work, home, or out in the community. And who doesn't want to be understood better?

Keeping Your Brain Active

Learning scripts, picking up new routines, and thinking on your feet all challenge your memory and mental flexibility. Performing arts keep your mind sharp, encourages creative problem-solving, and helps you adapt to new situations. It's also a great way to continue practicing those motor skills as you get older.

Celebrating Personal Achievement

Setting goals and working towards a performance or showcase can be incredibly rewarding. Each small step - whether it’s mastering a dance move, speaking up in a group, or performing in front of others - builds a sense of pride and accomplishment.

So to Finish...

Performing arts welcomes everyone, no matter your background or experience. In the right space, it can offer a supportive and uplifting environment. Many adults find the experience both therapeutic and energising. Ready to give it a try? We’d love to see you in class. If you have any questions or want to know more about what to expect, just reach out—we’re here to help you get started.