The big picture: Objectives, strategies, attributes, financing, participants, leaders and the significance of educational theatre programmes in Hungary.

This article presents a comprehensive descriptive statistical analysis of educational theatre programmes in Hungary during the 2012–13 theatre season, based on data collected from 298 institutions and 118 observed programmes. Educational theatre programmes are defined by five criteria including pedagogical goals, interactive participation, and multiple performances for different groups, primarily targeting public education audiences. The study identifies a significant growth or "boom" in educational theatre activity around 2010–11, with most programmes aimed at middle school and older youth, and highlights the influential role of teachers in programme participation. Common drama strategies include theatre performances, facilitator presentations, and whole-group work, while pre- and post-show activities are noted for enhancing participant engagement. The programmes predominantly address social and age-specific issues, align variably with the National Core Curriculum, and impact areas such as collective reflection, empathy, and communication skills, as reported by creators, teachers, participants, and observers.