NMS Theatre

In this article, Caleb shares a closer look at the new theatre program at North Middle School.

NMS Theatre

By: Caleb Sullivan

North Middle School Theatre, a young, small, priceless program, started on Mar. 2, 2023. Created and led by Jennifer Lynde, it is a growing mass, gaining new students by offering children new, fun experiences, opportunities, and achievements-- which recently included meeting a Broadway actress, an Emmy winner and other guest speakers, as well as attending workshops, different performances, becoming a Jr. Thespian Troupe, and much more. The group is already planning and doing many more great activities this year.

Photograph of North Middle School on their webpage

The director, Jennifer Lynde, is a passionate, dedicated teacher who has loved English and Theatre ever since she was young. Having been in the district for 13 years, four of those years revolved around CaveCub Theatre, and one year was spent teaching Theatre ELT in 2016. Although Lynde had many chances to go professional, being inspired by the teachers she met during school led her to choose teaching young minds instead. She desired to give young children the opportunities she was given in her life. Lynde has been very successful in her life, having made great accomplishments, acquiring much education through her thirst for knowledge, and even going as far to earn a certificate that would allow her to use theatre as a form of therapy. And that is just the tip of the iceberg. As she states, “My personal experiences could fill a 12-page resume, I know this because I have typed it out before.” This resume includes, but is not limited to: publishing of many scripts, having an appearance in a movie, working with companies, being a secretary for the International Thespian Society, being an International Honor Bar, and Thespian of the year in 2013.

Those who join NMS Theatre get to participate in many great events and plays, but that is not everything to experience. On the average day in NMS Theatre, students gather up in a circle, doing a daily check-in with themselves and others, as well as gaining the information they need for the day and upcoming events. Then, they participate in workshops, lessons, or productions-- sometimes meeting and working with a guest speaker. They learn about the history of theatre, musical theatre, stage and special effects, traditions, tech skills, voice acting, and so much more.

Just recently performing Mistletoe Magic and Merry Moments, this thespian troupe has performed many plays and events. They are currently preparing for a full show in March, an original world premiere production of Devine Encounters: A Comedy. Their yearly schedule usually includes 12-14 events per year, involving any opportunity that pops up; a few events recur, but the team makes sure to make each one unique. Their events include Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat. This is an International Thespian Society event that in which troupes can partake, where they go trick-or-treating for canned food and donate it to the food bank. They raised 105 pounds last year and 446 this year! Another event is Boo Bazar, a safe Halloween activity for younger children. Finally, they participate in Day of Caring, an event where they go to two retirement homes and perform for them, as well as spend time with the residents.

Theatre today is still important to our culture, bringing opportunities and entertainment, and preserving and creating new art. Without theatre, there would be fewer movies and books and, perhaps, even our English language would not be as large or complex. (Thanks, Shakespeare.) Everyone deserves to try theatre at least once in their life, as you never know: it could become a big passion and bring more opportunities to life. Theatre is not for everyone, but giving it a shot is necessary; there is no downside and everyone has a role in theatre. As stated by Ms. Lynde, "There is always a place for everyone in theatre. It doesn’t matter your background and abilities. There is somewhere that you will fit in if you like theatre. That’s what I believe.”

Sources:

Interview with NMS Theatre Director, Jennifer Lynde

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