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Psychological Health Through Theater

I came across the following post:

http://www.onstageblog.com/columns/2015/7/28/theatre-saved-my-life-from-depression-it-can-save-others-too

And am aware of the positive effects of theater in general, but am recently becoming more aware of the larger pattern that it seems to create.

I've noticed positive effects & strange parallels in sports, military, computers and social health in the elderly.  I think this is something that can be further explored across many disciplines.

Furthermore, I think that the general perception is about "theater people", with all the accompanying stereotypes of qualities of being dramatic or theatrical.  In actuality, the population is more of a collaborative effort, requiring several different personality types to interact consistently to produce a live event.

The art is often a byproduct of the larger psychological experience.  The "Art", in fact, is based on the altruistic notion of creating an experience for strangers, for a few hours at most. Whether they respond emotionally, psychologically or monetarily (by returning and recommending to their friends) is also notoriously badly tracked.

A "sold out" show is often based on a variety of other factors, scheduling, venue, advertising, reputation, previous theatrical experiences, tour packages, especially when it comes to Broadway.  Personally, the least emotionally moving shows I have seen have BEEN on Broadway.  And the most memorable experiences I have had have been in tiny independent theaters for a VERY short run.

I believe there is also a HUGE application for the attitudes of creating software.

Hmmm.  More to come.
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