Drama for Schools Symposium

Celebrating 20 Years of DFS and Beyond

Come join us at the Drama for Schools Symposium as we celebrate and reflect on 20 years of Drama for Schools (DFS) partnerships, programs and research. The DFS network spans four continents and includes partners from universities, government and non-government education agencies, professional arts organizations, educators, artists and students from Texas, North America, Europe, Asia and Oceana.

The Drama for Schools Symposium at The University of Texas at Austin will gather local, national and international DFS research partners together, in person, for the first time. Together, we will consider how drama-based pedagogy (and related practices) can be used to create more welcoming, equitable and engaged learning environments for all. Through panels, keynote speakers and performances and interactive sessions, the Drama for Schools Symposium will provide a critical gathering space to reflect on past work, learn new methods and envision a better possible educational future.

Missed the invitation to present? Have questions about the symposium? Contact us at: dramaforschools@utexas.edu 

Registration for the Drama for Schools Symposium is open!

Register Now

Dates

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026

F. Loren Winship Drama Building at The University of Texas at Austin

On Friday, the DFS Symposium explores how arts-integrated professional learning can be used to drive educational improvement from within. Through key notes, panel discussions, research talks, and workshops, participants will explore the impact of arts-integrated learning design, facilitation and research in K-12, university and arts organization contexts.

On Saturday, the DFS Symposium focuses on the use of drama-based pedagogy and arts-integrated practice in K-12, university and arts organization classrooms. Beginning with a youth-centered keynote, participants will engage in hands-on discussions, workshops and model lessons as we explore the future of Drama for Schools and beyond. 

Admission Details

One day registration: $50. Two day registration: $100. 

Light breakfast and lunch provided. Parking available if needed.

Register

Registration closes May 4, 2026.

Plan Your Visit

Lodging Recommendations

AT&T Hotel and Conference Center ($$$) - 1900 University Avenue, Austin, TX 78705 (.7 miles from F. Loren Winship Drama Building)

Moxy Hotel Austin – University ($$) - 2552 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78705 (.7 miles from F. Loren Winship Drama Building)

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Austin Capitol ($$) - 300 East 11th Street, Austin, TX, 78701 (1.2 miles from F. Loren Winship Drama Building)

Firehouse Hostel and Lounge ($) - 605 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701 (1.5 miles from F. Loren Winship Drama Building)

Transportation

Ride share options: Uber, Lyft

Public buses: There are public buses available to campus and other locations within Austin by Capmetro. A single ride on a local bus or UT Shuttle costs $1.25. A 1-day pass for the public is $2.50. 

• Single Ride (Local/Shuttle): $1.25
• Day Pass (Local/Shuttle): $2.50
• 7-Day Pass: $11.25
• 31-Day Pass: $41.25

To purchase a pass, use this link https://www.capmetro.org/howtobuy

Accessibility

At the Drama for Schools Symposium we will be providing: wheelchair access, lactation rooms, digital access to the program/schedule of events, sensory supports (quiet room, fidgets), dietary-restricted food options and accessible seating. Registrants have the opportunity to request additional accommodations in the registration process.

Check out our website with over 100 arts integrated instructional strategies: https://dbp.theatredance.utexas.edu/

Connect with Drama for Schools on Facebook and Instagram