Should Theatre Be Censored In Schools

Should There be Censorship in the American High Schools When It Comes to Theatre? Pippin, Legally Blonde, and Rent are all great shows that get a lot of controversy when it comes to high school age children performing them. Censorship, in high school, is becoming a major problem and it’s happening not only in the classroom, but also breaches the stage. When it comes to selecting the right type of musical or play, one can never be to careful. Audiences can get into a riot over a show with cursing or innuendos. Is it wrong for them to be upset? Of course not. We all live by our own convictions and do not like to be challenged when it comes to them. Is it right, based on your own convictions, to censor what is being performed onstage? The answer is a resounding no! High school drama programs should not censored or limited to what they can perform. Many people wonder why high school theatre is relevant. If you search the topic, you will find …show more content…
In February of this year, Middle Township High School, in New Jersey, performed the musical Pippin. (Oleksinski, 1) Pippin is a coming of age story about finding who you are as a person. The show contains language, innuendos, and racy scenes; however, it also contains a story that resonates with teens everywhere. The story covers topics of identity, purpose, and not limiting yourself to trying new things. (Oleksinski, 3) Sadly, many audience members couldn’t look past the “inappropriateness” of the musical to see the true beauty (the storyline) of the show. One parent complained how, being a Christian, the show degraded the family because they don’t use curse words. According to the author, all storytelling is rooted in conflict whether it involves sex, violence, or love. (Oleksinski, 2) As another Christian parent stated, “….shows are a success for a reason. They touch the heart.” Pippin is considered by many to be one of those shows that touch your heart. (Oleksinski,