Expect Respect offers educational theatre programs for middle and high school audiences to spark dialogue about healthy relationships and preventing bullying, sexual harassment, sexting, sexual assault, and dating abuse.

The Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble (in collaboration with Creative Action)

“I liked that the show addressed problems we all face and actual problems teens face every day.”
– Audience member, 8th grade

“I was so impressed with how masterfully you negotiated complex concepts with middle-school students! It was so inspiring to see how many meaningful and profound ideas you covered in a short time. What a huge impact you have on young people’s lives!”
– Social and emotional learning coach

High-school students audition each summer and rehearse throughout the school year to create original productions for middle-school audiences in the Austin area. Performances are designed for groups of approximately 200 students and encourage teens to be active bystanders and take a stand against discrimination, violence, and abuse in their schools and communities. One-hour run time includes 45-minute performance and 15-minute post-show discussion.

Every year, the ensemble creates an original play centered on pressing issues in the lives of young people. Please contact Claire K. Redfield at credfield@safeaustin.org if you are interested.

For even more information please visit changinglivesyouth.wordpress.com.

ACTivate 

This program empowers youth to share their personal stories through a devised, collage theatre performance. Participants explore relevant topics using movement, scenes, monologues, poetry and projections to speak their truth and share their stories. This program has an in-school residency component, as well as a summer production.

Contact Claire Redfield at credfield@safeaustin.org.

CLYTE TOUR 2025: SEED OF DOUBT

How do you stand up for yourself in the face of self-doubt?

The Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble, a collaboration between Creative Action and Expect Respect (a program of SAFE), returns with their 2025 school tour of Seed of Doubt, written and performed by an ensemble of artists aged 14-18.

Alwyn can’t believe their luck when the popular and charismatic Damian notices them at summer camp, and they’re even happier when it turns out they’ll both be going to Lakewood High. But when school starts, Damian changes…for the worse. Meanwhile, Abby’s looking forward to a great senior year–apart from her anxiety and fraught relationship with her mom. Luckily, her best friend Kat has always been by her side. But recently, Abby needs more and more support, and Kat has struggled to keep up… Along the way, Abby and Alwyn are joined by Harmony and Discord – two inner voices who help them process their relationships.

Seed of Doubt reflects the experience of imposter syndrome and codependency and helps youth (grades 6-8) recognize signs of an unhealthy relationship. We ask:

  • How does self-doubt create confusion about relationships?
  • What are the limits of support?
  • How do I set healthy boundaries and communicate my needs?

SEED OF DOUBT Public Shows

Friday, May 2nd & Saturday, May 3rd, 7pm

CRASHBOX, 5305 Bolm Rd. #12, Austin, TX 78721

​​For over 20 years, Changing Lives has created original plays and toured to schools, conferences, and community events across the greater Austin area to spark dialogue about teen relationships and encourage youth to take a stand against dating violence, sexual harassment, and bullying.

Schools can reach out to Jacqui Calloway at jcalloway@creativeaction.org for more information.

Please Note: This play addresses emotional abuse and mental health. Questions? Reach out!