TRUST
Transformative Residencies Using Song and Theater (TRUST) is a social-services program which leverages theater and song-writing modalities to:
Build Literacy
Help young people process-trauma and build emotional management skills
Utilize play and storytelling to bridge cultural gaps
Strengthen a young person’s sense of belonging
In each TRUST session, professional NYCCT Teaching Artists (TAs) lead young people on a literary and thematic exploration of a selected children’s book using theater, songwriting, and playwriting exercises.
Residencies are staffed with teams of local TAs who commit to a shelter site and become part of the shelter community. Most TAs have Master’s Degrees in their Artistic Speciality. All are trained in Trauma Informed Pedagogy, best practices for engaging multilingual learners, and Universal Design for Learning practices.
TRUST provides an adaptable curriculum that develops social skills and teaches emotional management, crucial skills for children experiencing instability. Topics that we explore in sessions, such as family and friendship, can be emotional landmines for children who have experienced trauma, as many of these children have. Reliable, recognizable session leaders support an environment that allows for vulnerability when young people require it.
Central to each session is the idea of play. Scientific studies suggest that play acts as an antidote to trauma. By rewiring the physical tension that comes from trauma metastasizing in the body, play releases traumatic effects on the whole person.
NYCCT has delivered TRUST programming across NYC continually since 2016.
TRUST in the Bronx read aloud
TRUST in the Bronx Shadow puppetry
TRUST in Brooklyn Campfire craft
TRUST in Manhattan Mermaid parade
TRUST in Manhattan Statues game
We Need Your Support
New York City Children’s Theater is committed to not allow the economic hardships that we, like other organizations city- and country-wide, are suffering to compromise our commitment to New York City’s children.