Students in the theatre program will focus on technique from various theatre artists throughout the globe.  Students will learn improvisation skills that compliment movement, voice, critical thinking and life skills. Students will develop skills not only for the stage but skills for life.  Each class period is roughly 40 minutes in length. 

Students will learn the history of theatre, focusing on Western Theatre, starting with Greek. They will progress throughout history moving from Commedia dell’arte, Elizabethan, Realist, Restoration, and Modern/Modern American Musical. Students develop several projects through each time period and will demonstrate their knowledge through various performance opportunities. 

Students will learn the art of playwriting. They will learn how to develop stories and characters centered around a theme. They will break down a play using a plot curve and create fully developed characters.

Students in grades 7 and 8 can apply and be a part of Ohio Junior Thespian Society, Troupe #88187. Junior Thespian membership is granted for the performance of meritorious work in theatre arts that meets the International Thespian Society’s guidelines. Points are earned for hours spent in rehearsal and performance, working on production crews, working in the box office, doing committee work, and helping with Junior Thespian projects.

Additional Opportunities

Performances:  Main Stage Fall Play, Main Stage Spring Musical 

Miller South Clubs: Ohio Junior Thespian Society 

This is a class that is offered to 7th and 8th grade students seeking a more specified approach to acting and theatre. Students must apply to add this class to their schedule and are in this class for two years, if they start in 7th grade. They will learn four different styles of theatre: Commedia dell’arte, Shakespeare, Devised and Film/Television Acting. Students spend a semester with each style. 

Every year, the Theatre Program produces two Mainstage shows ( a play and a musical) for the school. Any student in any interest area may audition and/or be cast in one or both of those productions. Rehearsals are after school and this is considered an extracurricular activity. Theatre students are required to audition for these performances as part of their education in the theatre.