Editorial ‘Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart.’ William Wordsworth
We are increasingly living in a heavily curated world. Much of what we see, online and in real life, has been chosen, designed and edited. We are frequently engaging with the best version of something or, in many cases, an unrealistic or entirely false projection. We are coaxed into working towards a final product - we delete, we edit, we cut, we sharpen. We attempt to create perfection and then hope that no one digs deeper or finds flaws in our product. Where then, can we find space to be ourselves. Truly ourselves. With no judgement. A safe space to express our perfect imperfect selves.... For many, this space is a journal. The art of journaling has been around for centuries. It is known to have a powerful effect, often helping to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety or stress but it can also be used as a tool to help us engage with our creative selves and reflect on our process and development. For IB theatre, students ‘keep a theatre journal throughout the two-year theatre course which charts their development and their experiences of theatre as a creator, designer, director, performer and spectator.’ I’m sure for many students this is a welcome space to record their thoughts but for others, this may not come naturally at all. But, if given the tools and the right framing, the journal can become a trusted space and prove invaluable in a student’s journey. This issue offers practical tips and advice on journaling, from starting early and weaving reflection into the primary years to returning to physical
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