Theatre Arts

Let me start off with some good news. If you pass Theatre Arts I, you will receive one credit in fine arts.
This fulfills one of your state requirements for high school graduation. But, it’s more than that.

The most common statement I get from beginning theatre students at the end of the semester is that even
though they were nervous at first, this class helped them build their confidence.

You don’t have to be a theatre person
to benefit from Theatre Arts.

Through hands-on projects, you will learn to problem-solve, collaborate with others, and overcome challenges as a team. Through performances, you learn to step outside your comfort zone and persevere through difficulties
as you take on many people’s greatest fear—speaking in front of others.

No matter your reason, I’m glad you’re here.
Even if you’re hesitant, it’s okay. That’s normal.
I believe in you, and I am here to help you along the way.

Theatre Arts classes are mixed-level, which means that returning
theatre students are learning alongside new theatre students.

As a returning student, your previous experience grants you more leadership opportunities
and more creative freedom within your projects, but you are graded with higher expectations of quality.

You can expect to have regular, in-class presentations about once per week. These presentations will be live in front of your classmates. Most of these presentations are memorized. Depending on the assignment, you might be performing by yourself, but most of the time, you'll have either a partner or group onstage with you.

You can also expect to regularly complete creative projects,
like drawings, posters, and/or 3D models.

Most classwork assignments that do not require drawing, coloring, or painting, will be completed using online resources.

If the school system ends up shifting to online learning due to an unexpected emergency - like we did during the COVID-19 pandemic - all assignments will be modified so that they can be completed on Google Classroom, and presentations will be video recordings completed via FlipGrid.

Right now, our school system is opening normally with no plans to offer an online learning option.

If that changes, all class announcements, including those in the event of online learning,
can be found on the Stream page of Google Classroom.

Assignments will still be available on the daily work slides. Go to slide #9 for current assignments. 

I'm not a fan of homework.

Instead, I prefer for you to stay on task and use class time wisely.

I plan time during class for students to work on projects and classwork.
If you stay focused and use your class time to work,
you shouldn't have to finish any of these assignments as homework. 

The only thing you may need to do outside of class is review your script for memorized presentations.

Each student needs a 1" or 1.5" three-ring binder to keep in the classroom.
This will be used for scripts and other paper assignments.

All students are required to bring their fully charged laptop to class each day.
If your laptop is not working properly, you should report this to the Help Desk.
They will schedule repairs and temporarily lend you a laptop until yours is fixed.

The help desk does NOT have loaner chargers. Loaner laptops are only issued if yours is being repaired.

Always bring a writing utensil and paper!

Some students prefer to bring their own highlighters & coloring supplies.
This is fine, but not required. Materials for student use are in the cabinet by the window labeled "Supply Closet."

Extra Assignments

Sometimes, extra credit assignments are posted on Google Classroom.
Simply complete them and turn them in by the due date.

Compete at Speech & Debate Tournaments

Students may earn extra credit by participating in a Speech & Debate competition.
There are over 15 different acting, public speaking, and debate events to choose from.

No prior experience required!
This can be a fun way to try something new, and possibly win some trophies.

You can earn Distinction at graduation through Speech & Debate, and it looks great on college applications.

Interested students should talk to Ms. Wexler to be added to the team's BAND app,
where all official Speech & Debate team materials are posted.
To participate in this extra credit option, you must turn in a signed permission form
and must adhere to Ms. Wexler's team rules for attendance, grades, and behavior.

Play Review

You can write a play review for a show or other performance you have seen.
Digital performances count, too.
For example, you can check out the PBS on Broadway collection HERE.

Please click HERE to access the Google Form for the Play Review.

Audition Reflection

If you audition for a play, film, or other production, you can earn extra credit for sharing your experience.

Please click HERE to access the Google Form for the Audition Reflection.

Community Involvement

You can earn extra credit for participating in a theatre production, whether as a performer or a member of the stage crew. 

Please click HERE to access the Google Form for the Play Review

Yes. There is a class fee of $5, which is due by the end of the semester.
Naturally, if you completed the fee waiver form and meet the criteria, you are exempt from the class fee.