Adolfo Lima and the Introdution of Educational School Drama in Portugal

Abstract

Although the theatrical performances at schools had never really ended, it’s with the pedagogical revolution brought by the New School Movement that drama activities and arts in general regain the prominent place in education that they had back in Ancient Greece.
Adolfo Lima, an influent pedagogue during the First Republic, is one of the main defenders of the new pedagogical ideas. Teacher at the Escola Oficina number 1, in Lisbon, he will implement new methodologies, in what would be recognised as one of the most fruitful educational projects of our country.
In the artistic area, he will value, mainly, drama at school. The school dramatic activities are established and guided by him, according to the goals of the New Education. Thanks to his active and pioneer role, about a century ago, in the school drama area, Adolfo Lima may be considered the “father” of dramatic expression and drama education in Portugal.