How to set long-term goals in an organization

          Setting long-term goals in an organization is both an art and a science. It requires more than spreadsheets, numbers, and aggressive targets: it demands vision, sensitivity, active listening, and, above all, a deep connection with the organization’s culture and the people within it. Leading with purpose means viewing the future as a space of possibilities, where every present action resonates into sustainable results. Therefore, when we talk about strategic planning, we are also talking about neuroscience, theatre, and culture - because these three dimensions help us understand how people truly engage in a future plan.

Studies from institutions like MIT, Harvard Business School, and INSEAD have shown that the most successful organizations are not necessarily the ones with the best financial resources, but those that can align their long-term goals with their cultural and emotional identity. This is where the Quasar K+ Strategic Planning methodology, created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, becomes a powerful tool. This method proposes a journey that begins with organizational self-awareness, moves through active listening to employees, and culminates in broad, bold goals deeply rooted in institutional values. The aim is not merely to "hit numbers," but to inspire a continuous movement toward collective growth.

To set long-term goals effectively, leaders must develop a mindset that looks toward the future but is grounded in the present. The MAT - Mindset, Action, and Theatre methodology provides just that bridge: by integrating theatre as a symbolic practice, it helps leaders and teams dramatize their visions of the future, making tangible what is still only an idea. This strengthens emotional engagement with goals and creates greater cohesion across various sectors of the organization. It’s not just about planning - it’s about living the plan actively and collectively.

Take, for example, the case of Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, who redefined the company's internal culture upon assuming leadership. He based it on continuous learning, empathy, and collaboration. Nadella transformed a previously rigid organization into a flexible and innovative giant because he understood that the true power of long-term goals lies in people's mindset. He did exactly what modern neuroscience suggests: cultivated a "growth mindset," a concept studied by Carol Dweck of Stanford University, which shows that people with this mentality tend to engage more deeply with goals that challenge their comfort zones.

Moreover, by integrating the body into planning, the ThM - Theater Movement methodology teaches us that planning is, above all, a physical gesture. When employees represent, with their bodies, the challenges and achievements they want to reach, they create a kinesthetic memory that reinforces their commitment to goals. Using the body as a strategic tool is not new: New York University has recently explored how conscious bodily experiences strengthen neural circuits responsible for focus and persistence. In this context, planning ceases to be a bureaucratic task and becomes a living, pulsating, almost theatrical experience.

In parallel, the playful pedagogy of TBMB - Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater, also developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, offers a symbolic and powerful alternative for organizations wishing to work on long-term goals with diverse and creative teams. Using puppets to represent departments, dilemmas, values, and goals allows a lighter, yet deep approach to strategic planning. The puppet stories create narratives that help teams visualize future scenarios and, more importantly, understand their role within those scenarios. This is organizational culture being told in symbolic and emotional ways.

To make this process even more effective, communication must be clear, inspiring, and strategic. In his books “Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well” and “Breathing, Voice and Diction,” Antônio Carlos dos Santos teaches that leaders who communicate well build trust. It’s not enough to define goals—they must be told as stories that touch, engage, and motivate. The use of voice, intonation, and conscious breathing directly influences how messages are received and internalized. A long-term goal, in this sense, is not a chart—it is a living narrative that must be told repeatedly with authenticity.

Writing is also a fundamental ally in long-term planning. In the book “Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well,” the same author shows that poorly worded goals, with confusing or overly technical language, tend to demotivate. In contrast, well-structured texts using clear, emotional, and strategic language can act as real treasure maps. They guide team steps, illuminate the path, and keep everyone aligned toward the desired future. Writing well, in this context, is a form of leading with emotional intelligence and technical skill.

Another crucial point is the constant monitoring and revision of goals. Long-term objectives should not be rigid but reviewed frequently in light of new contexts. Neuroscience shows that the human brain responds better to goals that are challenging but also provide positive feedback along the way. This activates the reward circuit, responsible for producing dopamine—a substance linked to motivation. Organizations that keep their teams motivated with clear, flexible, and meaningful goals are those that manage to survive and thrive in volatile environments.

Ultimately, we must understand that planning the future is not about predicting the unpredictable, but about emotionally, culturally, and strategically preparing the organization for whatever comes. Setting long-term goals is, above all, an act of collective faith: faith in the organization's culture, in its people, and in the ability to learn from mistakes. By uniting neuroscience, culture, theatre, and planning, we create a more human, creative, and resilient organizational ecosystem—one that is, consequently, better prepared to achieve great goals with purpose and passion.

Thus, setting long-term goals is not just a management technique. It is a journey of collective self-discovery, a continuous exercise in listening, communication, and symbolic creation. It is theatre, science, culture, and planning walking together. And perhaps, in the end, the secret to organizational success is this: turning every future goal into a story worth living - together.

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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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