What's the most memorable feedback a student has given you?

As theatre educators, we pour our hearts into what we do. But sometimes, it’s our students who surprise us with the most meaningful lessons. Whether it’s a simple “thank you,” an unexpected insight, or a moment that reminds you why you love teaching, student feedback can be powerful. Do you celebrate these incredible moments?

We went straight to the source to get the inside scoop from those who’ve been there: drama teachers.

We asked: What's the most memorable feedback a student has given you?

Moments of Pure Joy & Excitement

“My heart’s on fire 🔥” — A grade 6 boy when I was doing a theatre arts residency at his school! This was over 20 years ago and why I went into education. (Suzanne M.)

“You were right, miss! That was FUN! ” (Becca BH)

“That was the best thing I’ve ever done! Can we do it again and again and again?” (Janet NG)

Gratitude & Personal Growth

“Thank you for helping me know what I really love doing.” Wow. (Betsy B.)

“Thank you for believing in me more than I did.” (Vicky B.)

When they finish a show, they give you a huge hug and just say, "thank you." That's all I'll ever need. 🥰💕 (Cherish T.)

Overcoming Fear & Finding Confidence

A year 7 pupil wrote: "Today I learnt not to be afraid." I'll never forget that. (Allison G.)

One child recently said to me, “As long as you’re giving theatre classes I will be here.” Sometimes I want to adopt them all. 😃 (Brenda C.)

The Power of Theatre to Change Lives

After the final curtain a student came to me and said, “Mr. G, I found my life tonight. I never want to lose this feeling.” (Bil G.)

“Theatre saved my life.” (Mary Beth B.)

That they finally found a place where they feel like they belong. 🫶 (Heartstrings TC)

Memories That Last a Lifetime

I had one kiddo who was infamously scatterbrained with a working memory similar to Dory. In the cast card, he wrote, “I may not remember much, but I’ll remember this.” 😭💜 (Kathy T.)

That their theatre class is their favorite class and they're going to miss it. (Walters SDMT)

Students Helping Their Teachers Grow

I had a technician/designer who in their second year said, “My peers and I continue to procrastinate when given our timeline to pull a show together. I think something we need is more clear and direct deadlines. I put together this template to take one thing off of your plate. Do you think this would be okay to try?!” Been using that template (and tweaking) ever since. (PT)

Funny & Unforgettable Feedback

"Maybe you should spend more time studying French history and less time picking out your outfits." Ok, maybe not the best, and not theatre related, and it sounds horribly rude but I promise that in context, it was hilarious! (Anne Z.)

Singing coach here. “Wow, you’ve really been practicing piano haven’t you, Miss? ’Cause you used to really suck but now you don’t.” (Vicky B.)

Additional Reading:
Getting and Giving Feedback
Back to School Affirmations for Teachers
A Classroom Skills Reflection for Drama Teachers
What’s the Best Thing About Being a Drama Teacher
How do you Define Success as a Drama Teacher?