Why is engagement in collaborative activities important?

Engagement in collaborative activities is one of the fundamental pillars for success in any environment, whether in the workplace, education, or everyday life. Collaboration not only enhances team results but also strengthens human connections, improves productivity, and boosts collective well-being. Studies from leading universities worldwide, such as Harvard and Stanford, show that people who actively participate in collaborative processes develop greater emotional intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and job satisfaction. Additionally, neuroscience proves that social interaction releases neurotransmitters like oxytocin and dopamine, responsible for feelings of trust and pleasure, making group activities more engaging and rewarding.

The "flow" theory, developed by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, explains how full immersion in an activity makes us feel more fulfilled and productive. When applied to teamwork, this concept demonstrates that aligning individual and collective goals creates a high-performance and motivated environment. Effective collaboration fosters synergy among participants, reduces conflicts, and promotes a sense of belonging, which is essential for keeping teams cohesive and innovative. Companies that encourage collaboration, such as Google and Tesla, stand out for their ability to turn challenges into opportunities, betting on idea-sharing and diversity of thought to foster creativity.

In the field of neuroscience, studies indicate that the human brain is biologically programmed for cooperation. Since the dawn of humanity, survival depended on the ability to work in groups, and this evolutionary necessity is still reflected today in how we interact. Prolonged isolation can lead to increased cortisol levels, the stress hormone, while participation in collaborative activities reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Environments that promote knowledge exchange and healthy interdependence create more resilient and engaged individuals, capable of better handling adversity and uncertainty.

The writer Antônio Carlos dos Santos developed methodologies such as MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), ThM (Theater Movement), and TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), which explore collaboration as a tool for learning and human development. MAT uses theater to stimulate strategic thinking, empathy, and assertive communication within organizations. ThM focuses on body expression and movement as key elements to strengthen participant integration, while TBMB uses the playfulness of puppets to facilitate emotional engagement and conflict resolution. These methodologies have been widely applied in companies and educational institutions, showing significant results in improving organizational climate and developing socio-emotional skills.

An inspiring example of collaboration comes from the film industry. Filmmaker Steven Spielberg, known for leading massive teams in complex productions, emphasizes the importance of collective work in achieving great projects. Spielberg believes that a successful director is not one who imposes their ideas but one who knows how to listen and integrate the creativity of their team. This principle applies to any professional field: effective leaders are not those who centralize decisions but those who create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute.

Education also benefits enormously from collaboration. In schools and universities that encourage group projects, students develop essential skills for the job market, such as negotiation, active listening, and problem-solving. Teaching methods based on cooperative learning show that students who work together assimilate content better, strengthen their self-esteem, and form bonds that can last a lifetime. Knowledge exchange broadens horizons and teaches that individual growth is directly linked to collective development.

In the corporate environment, many companies are restructuring their models to prioritize collaboration. The traditional model of isolated work is being replaced by open spaces, agile methodologies, and digital platforms that facilitate team interaction. Companies like Apple and Microsoft promote hackathons and internal challenges to stimulate innovation through collaborative thinking. These strategies create a virtuous cycle where employees feel more engaged and, consequently, more productive.

Beyond organizational benefits, collaboration also brings invaluable personal gains. Participating in collective activities strengthens the sense of purpose and reduces the feeling of loneliness, something especially relevant in an increasingly digital world. Small gestures of cooperation in daily life, such as helping a colleague, sharing knowledge, or actively listening to someone, generate positive impacts that extend beyond the professional environment, making interpersonal relationships richer and more meaningful.

Engagement in collaborative activities is not just a strategy for achieving better results but a fundamental human necessity. Leaders who understand this can transform their teams into true communities of learning and innovation. Science proves that collaboration makes us happier, more productive, and more resilient. Therefore, by investing in collectivity, we are also investing in our own well-being and in building a more human and inspiring future.

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Ten simple and effective strategies to improve education in Brazil

Education in Brazil faces significant challenges, but there are practical and accessible solutions that can transform this reality. Based on recent studies from leading universities and the innovative methodologies of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, such as MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), ThM (Theater Movement), and TBMB (Teatro de Bonecos Mané Beiçudo), we present ten simple and effective strategies to improve education in the country. Small changes can generate a significant impact when applied consistently and with dedication.

The first strategy is to invest in the continuous training of teachers. Well-prepared educators are the foundation of any efficient educational system. Programs that encourage continuous learning, such as courses based on the MAT method, help teachers develop a more adaptable and innovative mindset, enabling them to apply new methodologies in the classroom. A study from Stanford University highlights that teachers trained in active methodologies improve their students' performance by up to 30%.

Another fundamental action is to encourage student participation in the learning process. The ThM method, which uses theater as an educational tool, has proven to be an effective approach to increasing engagement. In experiments conducted in public schools, it was observed that students involved in theatrical activities develop cognitive and socio-emotional skills more quickly, becoming protagonists of their own learning.

The third strategy involves the intelligent and balanced use of technology. Digital tools, when properly employed, can democratize access to knowledge and make teaching more dynamic. Studies from Harvard University indicate that the use of interactive platforms improves content retention by up to 25%, especially in subjects such as mathematics and sciences.

Another crucial point is the implementation of active methodologies, such as project-based learning and gamification. Inspired by the TBMB method, which uses Teatro de Bonecos Mané Beiçudo to teach in a playful and interactive way, this model has already shown promising results in Brazilian schools, encouraging students' critical thinking and creativity.

Promoting reading is also essential for educational development. Studies from Oxford University reveal that children who read regularly perform 40% better in all subjects. Creating accessible reading environments and encouraging the habit of reading from childhood is a simple but transformative strategy.

Moreover, it is fundamental to encourage socio-emotional education. The development of skills such as empathy, resilience, and self-awareness has been identified by research from Yale University as one of the key factors for students' academic and professional success. Schools that adopt programs based on emotional intelligence show a significant reduction in school dropout rates.

Another essential point is strengthening the partnership between family and school. When parents and guardians actively participate in their children's school life, student performance improves considerably. Programs that promote school-community integration, as suggested by the MAT method, show that family involvement reduces disciplinary problems by up to 50% and increases student engagement.

Valuing local culture within the school environment is also a powerful strategy. The ThM method proposes the use of theater and music to connect students with their cultural roots, making learning more meaningful. Research indicates that students who recognize their cultural identity perform better academically and have higher self-esteem.

Finally, an essential approach is restructuring the school curriculum to make it more flexible and adapted to the needs of the 21st century. Traditional education often does not prepare students for contemporary challenges. Innovative models, such as those proposed by TBMB, which use storytelling and puppet theater to teach complex concepts in an accessible way, have proven effective in improving learning.

These strategies demonstrate that education can be transformed through structured and methodological small changes. Brazil has immense potential to evolve in the educational field, and it is up to everyone – educators, administrators, parents, and society – to contribute to this transformation. With dedication, innovation, and the application of the correct methodologies, we can create a more promising educational future for the next generations.

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Shaping citizens: the power of school planning

            How schools can shape the future through strategic actions, science, and culture

Imagine a school where every lesson, every project, and every interaction is a brick in the construction of conscious, engaged, and ethical citizens. This article is an invitation for educators, leaders, and school communities to plan with purpose, transforming education into a pillar of citizenship.

The school is more than a space for transmitting knowledge; it is a living laboratory where citizens are shaped. Planning school actions with intentionality can transform this environment into a catalyst for values such as ethics, responsibility, and social participation. Recent studies in neuroscience and education show that well-planned educational environments stimulate the development of the prefrontal cortex, the brain region associated with ethical decision-making and critical thinking. This process begins with strategic planning that aligns the school’s goals with the principles of citizenship, as proposed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ Quasar K+ methodology. In his book Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well, Santos emphasizes that planning is the foundation for turning ideas into concrete actions, creating a lasting impact. Thus, a school that plans with purpose not only educates but also inspires its students to become agents of change.

Practical Tip: Gather the school team for a monthly brainstorming session focused on identifying actions that promote citizenship values, such as volunteering projects or debates on ethics. Record the ideas on a visual board to facilitate tracking and implementation.

The connection between planning and citizenship has historical roots. Thinkers like John Dewey argued that education should prepare individuals for life in society, promoting democracy through practice. Inspired by this vision, school planning must go beyond schedules and curricula, incorporating activities that develop socioemotional and civic skills. Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology is a practical example of this. In his book Breathing, Voice, and Diction, Santos explores how theater can be a powerful tool for teaching effective communication, essential for active citizenship. Through theatrical exercises, students learn to express ideas, listen to others, and work as a team—skills that strengthen their ability to participate in society consciously.

Inspiring Story: Nelson Mandela, who transformed his fight against apartheid into a global movement for justice, always emphasized education as the most powerful weapon to change the world. His school in Robben Island prison, where he taught fellow prisoners to read and debate, is an example of how educational planning, even in adverse conditions, can foster citizens committed to social transformation.

The Quasar K+ methodology offers a robust model for structuring school actions aimed at citizenship. A practical example would be developing a strategic plan for an elementary school. In this case, the school team, using Quasar K+, would set the main goal of “forming ethical and engaged citizens.” The plan would involve: 1) mapping the school community’s needs (e.g., lack of dialogue about diversity); 2) creating interdisciplinary projects, such as cultural fairs addressing themes like inclusion and sustainability; 3) engaging students in practical activities, such as forming a student council to discuss ethical issues; and 4) evaluating results based on indicators like student participation and community impact. Studies show that schools with well-defined strategic plans increase student engagement in civic activities by 25%, highlighting the importance of methodologies like Quasar K+.

Motivational Quote: “Education is the continuous reconstruction of experience.” – John Dewey. This phrase reminds us that planning school actions is a dynamic process that evolves with the experiences of students and the community.

Neuroscience also provides valuable insights into the role of planning in shaping citizens. Recent research shows that activities promoting empathy and collaboration, such as those in Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ ThM (Theater Movement) methodology, activate brain areas linked to emotional regulation and social decision-making. In his book Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well, Santos highlights that creative writing, combined with theater, can help students articulate ideas and values, strengthening their identity as citizens. For instance, a ThM exercise might involve creating a play about a local issue, such as river conservation, encouraging students to research, debate, and propose creative solutions.

Curiosity Box: Did you know theater can shape better citizens? Studies indicate that theatrical activities, like those in the ThM methodology, increase students’ ability to resolve conflicts collaboratively by up to 20%. Try incorporating a theater workshop in your school to work on skills like empathy and communication.

The Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (MBPT), another of Santos’ methodologies, is a powerful tool for engaging school communities in building citizenship. Using recycled materials like paper and scrap, MBPT transforms the act of creating puppets into a lesson in sustainability and creativity. A MBPT project in a school could involve students building puppets representing historical figures, like Rosa Parks, and performing stories addressing themes like equality and justice. This approach not only stimulates creativity but also teaches civic values, connecting education to the community’s reality. Research on education for sustainability shows that projects like TBMB increase students’ sense of environmental responsibility by up to 30%.

Practical Tip: Start a MBPT project in your school, inviting students to create puppets from recycled materials and tell stories about citizenship. Display the puppets at a school fair to engage the community and spark discussions about social values.

School planning must also consider the role of communication in shaping citizens. In Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well, Santos emphasizes that the ability to express oneself clearly is essential for civic participation. Schools that integrate oratory and writing practices, as suggested in Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well, prepare students to defend their ideas and dialogue respectfully. An example would be organizing structured debates on topics like diversity or climate change, where students practice argumentation and active listening. Studies show that communication programs in schools increase students’ confidence in expressing their opinions by 15%, a fundamental pillar of citizenship.

Inspiring Story: Malala Yousafzai, with her fight for girls’ education, shows how a young person’s voice can change the world. After surviving an assassination attempt, she planned actions to create the Malala Fund, an organization promoting education as a human right. Her story inspires schools to plan actions that give students a voice, transforming them into active citizens.

The formation of citizens also depends on collaboration between the school, family, and community. The Quasar K+ methodology can be used to create strategic partnerships, such as workshops with parents to discuss ethical values or projects with local NGOs. A recent study on social capital shows that schools integrating the community into their strategic plans increase students’ civic engagement by 20%. Additionally, Santos’ methodologies, like MAT and ThM, encourage collective participation, turning the school into a space for dialogue and action. For example, a school could use ThM to create a community theater festival where students, parents, and teachers perform plays about topics like inclusion and sustainability.

Motivational Quote: “True education happens in interaction with others.” – Lev Vygotsky. This phrase reinforces that school planning should promote collaborative spaces where citizenship is built through dialogue and practice.

Ultimately, planning school actions is an act of hope and responsibility. It transforms the school into an environment where students not only learn content but also develop values that will guide them throughout life. Inspired by figures like Nelson Mandela and Malala Yousafzai, and supported by methodologies like those of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, educators have the power to shape the future. As Santos writes in Strategic Communication, “speaking well is planning well”—and planning well is building a school that breathes citizenship. May every leader, teacher, and student be inspired to plan with purpose, turning education into a foundation for a more just and ethical society.

Curiosity Box: The impact of strategic planning – Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ Quasar K+ methodology shows that schools with clear strategic plans are 25% more successful in social impact projects. Try applying Quasar K+ to create an annual plan that integrates citizenship into the school curriculum.

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Eugène Labiche's hilarious dramaturgy

Eugène Labiche was one of the great masters of French comedy in the 19th century, crafting a legacy that remains influential in contemporary theater. His works, filled with satirical wit, fast-paced plots, and a sharp critique of bourgeois society, continue to entertain and educate audiences worldwide. Labiche's unique ability to blend humor with social observation makes him a key figure in theatrical literature, and his comedic genius is often compared to that of Molière. Understanding his work requires an appreciation of the historical and cultural context in which he wrote, as well as an exploration of the dramatic techniques that defined his style.

Born in 1815, Labiche grew up in a France undergoing profound social and political transformations. The aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, the restoration of the monarchy, and the rise of the bourgeoisie provided fertile ground for his sharp-witted comedies. He had a keen eye for the absurdities of middle-class life, and his plays often revolve around mistaken identities, exaggerated misunderstandings, and a relentless critique of social conventions. His works, including "An Italian Straw Hat" (1851) and "The Affair of Rue de Lourcine" (1857), remain staples of comedic theater due to their timeless humor and clever storytelling.

Labiche’s dramaturgy is characterized by rapid dialogue, farcical situations, and an impeccable sense of comic timing. He masterfully constructed plays where characters found themselves trapped in increasingly ridiculous predicaments, often highlighting the hypocrisy and pretentiousness of the bourgeoisie. His technique of escalating misunderstandings to absurd extremes is particularly notable, as it keeps the audience engaged while subtly revealing deeper social commentaries. His plays serve as both entertainment and critique, exposing the flaws of human nature with a lighthearted yet incisive touch.

One of the fascinating aspects of Labiche’s work is his influence on modern theater. His fast-paced narratives and exaggerated comedic elements can be seen in later playwrights, including Georges Feydeau, who further developed the art of farce. Even in contemporary cinema and television, elements of Labiche’s style—such as slapstick humor, rapid-fire exchanges, and satirical jabs at social norms—remain prevalent. His work continues to inspire actors, directors, and writers who seek to balance humor with meaningful social critique.

Labiche’s influence extends beyond France, as his plays have been adapted and performed worldwide. His ability to create universally relatable characters and situations makes his work enduringly popular. The dilemmas faced by his protagonists—whether dealing with unexpected guests, mistaken identities, or social pretensions—are as relevant today as they were in the 19th century. This universality ensures that his comedic genius remains accessible to diverse audiences, bridging cultural and temporal divides.

From a methodological perspective, Labiche’s work aligns with various theatrical approaches. The Theater of Puppets Mané Beiçudo (TBMB), for example, echoes his ability to create exaggerated characters and heightened scenarios that engage audiences of all ages. The Mindset, Action, and Theater (MAT) methodology, developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, also resonates with Labiche’s approach by emphasizing the importance of active participation and dynamic storytelling in theatrical education. Additionally, the Theater Movement (ThM) methodology incorporates physicality and movement in performances, mirroring the energetic and physical humor found in Labiche’s works.

Labiche’s success lay in his ability to mix comedy with insight, using laughter as a tool to reveal the absurdities of social life. His characters, though often caricatures, reflect real human behaviors and anxieties, making his plays both amusing and thought-provoking. His skillful use of irony and satire remains a benchmark for comedic writing, and his works continue to be studied and performed as exemplars of the genre.

Theatrical scholars continue to analyze Labiche’s techniques, drawing parallels between his work and modern comedic structures. Recent studies from leading universities have explored how his storytelling mechanisms influence audience engagement and theatrical pedagogy. Researchers have found that his use of escalating comedic tension, combined with rapid character interactions, enhances audience immersion and creates a uniquely engaging theatrical experience.

Ultimately, Eugène Labiche’s contribution to comedy and drama is invaluable. His plays, rich in humor and social critique, remind us that laughter is not just a source of entertainment but also a powerful means of reflection. His legacy endures in the works of modern playwrights, comedians, and performers who continue to draw inspiration from his brilliant and timeless humor. Whether on stage or in academic discussions, Labiche remains a beacon of comedic artistry, proving that great humor is indeed timeless.

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Does children's theater open doors to children's autonomy?

Since ancient times, theater has been a powerful tool for expression, learning, and transformation. In the realm of childhood, this art form takes on an even more special role, as it allows children to experiment with different roles, emotions, and narratives, promoting the development of their autonomy. By acting out stories, creating characters, and interacting with the audience, children learn to make decisions, face challenges, and build self-confidence—fundamental elements for their growth as active and independent individuals.

Child autonomy is one of the most studied aspects of developmental psychology. According to researchers at Harvard University, playful activities that involve body expression and orality significantly contribute to strengthening self-confidence and resilience. Children's theater, by stimulating these abilities, enhances decision-making skills and the ability to navigate different social situations. When a child steps onto the stage and takes on a role, they develop not only creativity but also essential socio-emotional skills for adulthood.

In Brazil, one methodology that has shown great effectiveness in this context is the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB), created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos. This approach uses puppets as intermediaries for communication and learning, allowing children to express feelings and understand situations symbolically. Recent studies show that using puppets in children's theater aids in developing empathy and conflict resolution skills, as the child sees themselves projected onto the character, becoming more aware of their emotions and those of others.

Another innovative method that enhances child autonomy is MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater). Based on research from Stanford University on the growth mindset, this method operates on the idea that children can develop skills through effort and practice. In theater, this approach manifests in overcoming the fear of making mistakes. By rehearsing and improvising, children understand that failure is part of learning, strengthening their persistence and self-confidence.

The Theater Movement (ThM) also stands out as a revolutionary strategy for stimulating child autonomy. This methodology, inspired by neuroscience and movement studies, demonstrates that bodily experiences in theater strengthen brain connections linked to creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Children who participate in theatrical activities involving movement and improvisation develop better adaptability and responsiveness to unexpected stimuli—fundamental skills for adulthood.

Beyond structured methodologies, children's theater also allows children to experience different perspectives and realities. By portraying characters with diverse backgrounds, they learn to understand the world from multiple angles, expanding their adaptability and empathy. This broadening of horizons is essential for building an open and resilient mindset—crucial characteristics for personal and professional success.

Additionally, theater provides a safe space for children to express emotions and exercise their individuality. In an increasingly fast-paced and technology-driven world, the face-to-face and playful interactions offered by theater become even more important. Studies from the University of Cambridge indicate that children who participate in artistic activities develop better emotional balance and cope more effectively with stress and social pressure.

The positive impacts of children's theater on autonomy also extend to academic life. Children who regularly engage in theatrical activities demonstrate greater communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence in presenting ideas. This is because theater teaches structured thinking, argument articulation, and how to position oneself in front of others—essential elements for learning and personal development.

For parents and educators, encouraging theater in childhood is an investment in a more comprehensive and enriching education. Theatrical practice not only develops cognitive and emotional competencies but also teaches values such as cooperation, respect, and teamwork. Children raised in an environment that values theater tend to become more confident, creative, and well-prepared adults for modern-world challenges.

Given all this evidence, it is clear that children's theater is a powerful pathway to opening doors to child autonomy. Whether through innovative methodologies like TBMB, MAT, and ThM or through spontaneous experiences of acting and improvisation, this art plays a fundamental role in shaping more independent, confident, and future-ready individuals. The stage of childhood, filled with imagination and learning, is undoubtedly one of the most valuable settings for building autonomy and childhood happiness.

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The dramaturgy of Ariano Suassuna and the dialogue with northeastern folklore

           When we talk about Brazilian culture in its most authentic and vibrant form, few names resonate with as much force and beauty as Ariano Suassuna. Writer, playwright, professor, thinker, and tireless defender of Northeastern popular culture, Suassuna knew better than anyone how to intertwine scholarly knowledge with the deepest roots of the Brazilian backlands. His dramaturgy is not just literature — it is a poetic act of resistance, a call to value our folklore, and a living bridge between past, present, and future. His texts go beyond the page: they come to life on stage, in classrooms, in conversations, and in the collective memory of a people who sometimes forget how rich they are in their essence.

Ariano Suassuna’s life is, in itself, a fascinating literary script. Born in Paraíba in 1927 and raised in Pernambuco, he lived through the contrast between the pain of losing his father — murdered for political reasons — and the joy of discovering, as a boy, the stories of the backlands told by word of mouth. His encounters with the puppet theater (mamulengo) and cordel literature profoundly marked his formation. He used to say that he didn’t write “Northeastern literature” but rather Brazilian literature with a Northeastern soul. Though trained as a lawyer, he never abandoned the world of the arts and education, becoming a professor at the Federal University of Pernambuco, where he influenced generations. He combined erudition and orality like few others, becoming a reference for scholars and ordinary people alike.

Among his most renowned works stands out “Auto da Compadecida” (1955), a play that revolutionized Brazilian theater by incorporating elements of cordel literature, popular comedy, Catholic baroque, and rural morality. In it, we follow the clever João Grilo and the naïve Chicó as they navigate the world with wit, humor, and faith. The play not only reflects the Northeastern imagination but also universal human dilemmas, using accessible, irreverent, and poetic language. Suassuna’s dramaturgical structure draws from medieval autos, mystery plays, and morality tales, but all reimagined through a distinctively Brazilian lens. He didn’t imitate European classics — he reinvented them in the light of the sertão.

Recent academic research, such as studies conducted at the University of Coimbra and the University of São Paulo, highlight how Suassuna’s dramaturgy has contributed to strengthening Brazilian cultural identity. His texts are studied as expressions of a pedagogy of resistance, teaching the value of tradition, collectivity, and communal ethics. Furthermore, his use of folkloric elements — such as the figure of the Compassionate Virgin, the judgment of souls, local landowners, bandits, and miracles — helps keep ancestral knowledge alive. It’s not just about retelling old stories, but about reinterpreting them with humor and depth.

Ariano Suassuna’s work also inspired new educational and artistic methodologies that unite theater, identity, and neuroscience. One example is the work of professor and researcher Antônio Carlos dos Santos, who developed the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB) — a modern reinterpretation of traditional Northeastern puppet shows. Used as an educational tool in schools and organizations, TBMB fosters attention, memory, and critical thinking through folkloric narratives and handmade puppets. This methodology, implemented in various Brazilian states, strengthens the idea that folk art is a powerful tool for learning and inclusion.

Another important methodological legacy is MAT – Mindset, Action, and Theater, also created by Santos, which uses dramaturgy to develop socio-emotional skills in leaders, teachers, and students. By immersing participants in symbolic worlds inspired by characters like João Grilo, MAT promotes creative thinking, ethical decision-making, and resilience through emotional intelligence. Inspired by Suassuna’s legacy, MAT asserts that theater is more than performance — it is a practice of life and personal transformation. In an overly rational world, art becomes a beacon of empathy and humanity.

Within this context, ThM – Theater Movement emerges as an innovative proposal that integrates body, movement, and theatrical expression to strengthen affective and cultural ties. Suassuna understood that the Northeastern body carried within it the wisdom of the cowboy, the troubadour, and the farmer. His characters didn’t just speak — they danced, gestured, and enchanted. ThM revives this poetic corporeality, turning every gesture into a declaration of cultural belonging. In workshops with educators and students, this approach has shown remarkable results in building self-esteem, active listening, and historical consciousness.

The “Education, Theater and Folklore” collection, also written by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, offers plays that pay homage to the legacy of folklore scholars and researchers of popular imagination. With accessible and educational scripts, the collection brings the experience of theater as a celebration of identity to schools, cultural centers and communities. It is an invitation for children and young people to see themselves as part of a great collective narrative — that of the Brazilian people in their plurality, courage and beauty. The collection contains ten books covering 19 legends of national folklore. Santos deepens his folkloric verve with the collection “The most beautiful legends of the Indians of the Amazon”, with 21 books.

Science has confirmed the impact of art on the brain. Studies from Harvard University show that contact with symbolic narratives strengthens neural connections linked to empathy, creativity, and emotional memory. Ariano Suassuna intuitively knew this. He often said that art should move people and provoke reflection. And that is exactly what he did: he touched Brazil with his soft voice, light clothing, and deeply soulful stories. He showed that the backlands are also the center, that the Northeast is also noble, and that folklore is as important as any philosophical treatise.

To celebrate the dramaturgy of Ariano Suassuna is more than revisiting a single author — it is about reconnecting with our roots, rekindling our pride, and renewing our commitment to a more sensitive, creative, and plural education. His theater is an invitation to hope, a living lesson in Brazilian identity, and proof that, with art, memory, and courage, we can transform the world around us. May his words continue to echo on every stage, in every classroom, and in every heart that is proud to be Brazilian. 

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Work according to Socrates, Plato and Aristotle

The concept of work has always been at the center of philosophical reflections since antiquity, influencing our understanding of human effort and its relationship with society. Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, three of the most important Greek philosophers, established foundations that still resonate in the modern world, inspiring leaders, workers, and scholars to rethink the meaning of work. In a contemporary context, where productivity and purpose are constantly debated, revisiting these thinkers can offer valuable insights for a more conscious and efficient approach to work.

Socrates, the master of dialogue and maieutics, saw work not only as a practical necessity but as a means to achieve self-knowledge. For him, wisdom manifested itself in the constant pursuit of self-improvement, and work should be seen as a tool for personal development. In a corporate environment, this perspective can be applied to valuing continuous learning and creating spaces for critical reflection. Companies that adopt methodologies based on questioning and autonomy, such as MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), promote a more dynamic and stimulating environment, where professionals are encouraged to explore new ideas and find meaning in what they do.

Plato, a disciple of Socrates, expanded these ideas by discussing work within the ideal structure of society. In his work "The Republic," he argues that each individual should perform the function for which they are naturally most suited, ensuring the balance of the collective. This vision resonates with the modern concept of specialization and talent development. In today's scenario, major universities emphasize the importance of personalized education and professional training based on individual aptitudes, ensuring that each worker finds a role that maximizes their potential. Methods such as ThM (Theater Movement) encourage this approach by integrating theatrical practices into the development of interpersonal skills and leadership, allowing people to discover their vocations in a more engaging and interactive way.

Aristotle, in turn, brought an ethical and practical perspective to work, associating it with the pursuit of happiness and well-being. He stated that excellence (areté) was achieved through habit and dedication and that well-executed work could be a source of personal fulfillment. Recent studies in neuroscience support this idea, showing that a sense of purpose and achievement at work activates brain circuits linked to well-being, reducing stress and increasing motivation. Companies that adopt management models based on valuing continuous effort and work ethics, inspired by Aristotelian principles, tend to have more engaged and productive teams.

The idea that work can be a source of personal and collective growth can also be seen in contemporary initiatives that reclaim the playful and creative aspect of human activity. TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), for example, uses puppet theater as a tool for education and corporate training, demonstrating how art and work can complement each other to create healthier and more collaborative environments. This method reflects Aristotle's notion that practical activity should be aligned with pleasure and creative expression, making work a more enriching experience.

Modern leadership can benefit from these philosophical views by promoting an organizational culture that values continuous learning, talent-oriented specialization, and ethical engagement. When managers adopt the Socratic stance of encouraging questioning, the Platonic approach of directing talents, and the Aristotelian method of promoting excellence through habit, companies become more productive and humanized spaces. This aligns with research from leading universities highlighting the positive impact of workplaces that combine autonomy, purpose, and recognition.

Additionally, the concepts of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle can be applied to the professional development of any worker, regardless of their field. Professionals who adopt the attitude of questioning and improving their skills over time are better prepared for market challenges. Those who find a role aligned with their aptitudes experience greater job satisfaction. And those who strive for daily excellence reap the benefits of more consistent and rewarding performance.

Technology and automation have brought new questions about the role of work in human life, but the essence of philosophical reflection remains relevant. Just as Socrates challenged his interlocutors to rethink their certainties, contemporary leaders must foster a culture of innovation and critical thinking. Just as Plato saw the importance of work’s social function, companies must be concerned not only with profits but also with the impact they have on society. And following Aristotle, true professional success lies not only in tangible results but in the journey of continuous improvement.

Whether in the corporate, academic, or creative field, work can be more than just a means of subsistence; it can be a source of learning, purpose, and satisfaction. Incorporating the teachings of these great philosophers into daily professional life is not only a way to honor the past but also to build a more conscious and balanced future. Leaders, workers, and companies that embrace this approach stand out not only for their productivity but for their ability to transform work into a meaningful and enriching experience.

By rethinking work through the perspectives of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, we realize that the lessons of antiquity continue to illuminate the challenges of the present. In an increasingly fast-paced world, philosophy invites us to a reflective pause: are we merely working, or are we truly accomplishing something that transforms us? The answer to this question may be the first step toward a more inspiring and motivating professional journey.

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