Educational institutions in Loja and Zamora Chinchipe, part of the Sierra-Amazonía regime in Zona 7, held civic events to recognize International Theatre Day, according to a March 24 announcement. The activities aimed to highlight the importance of theatre as an artistic, cultural, and educational expression within the learning process.
The initiative sought to encourage appreciation for theatre’s role in developing critical thinking, empathy, and creativity among children and young people. Organizers also aimed to strengthen interest in performing arts as a key part of Ecuadorian cultural identity and its contribution toward building a more reflective and participatory society.
During these civic events, students engaged in short theatrical performances, dramatizations, dramatic readings from Ecuadorian and international plays, exercises focused on body expression and improvisation, theatre games, and presentations about the history of theatre. These activities explored how theatre has influenced society over time.
At Unidad Educativa Zoila Alvarado in Loja city, students staged the well-known Ecuadorian play “Huasipungo,” using it as an opportunity to reflect on social realities depicted in national literature while recognizing theatre as both an educational tool and form of cultural expression.
Informational displays were also presented with facts about the origins of International Theatre Day along with information about important figures from both Ecuadorian and global theatre traditions. This demonstrated what organizers described as a strong commitment by the school community to art and knowledge.
Paulina Jiménez, rector at Unidad Educativa Zoila Alvarado said: “El teatro permite que nuestros estudiantes desarrollen su sensibilidad y su capacidad de expresión.” Johanna Sánchez, district director for education said: “Recordar el Día Internacional del Teatro desde las instituciones educativas es abrir espacio al arte, la reflexión y la participación estudiantil.”
With these actions marking International Theatre Day this year at schools across Zona 7 regions Loja and Zamora Chinchipe reaffirm their commitment to comprehensive education that values art and culture as essential components for learning.
