ENTERING the THEATRE CLASSROOM:

When students enter, they are required to put their backpacks, purses, belongings on the counter. No cell phones. No computers (unless they're needed during class). 

•  STUDENT SIGN-IN 

•  WARM-UPS - 8 - 10 minutes

All students have a daily group warm-up to prepare for class. 

•  STUDIO DAYS - majority of class time

Three days a week are dedicated to "Studio Days." On these days, students learn techniques rooted in The Meisner Technique, Rudolf Laban's Eight Efforts for Actors, and Inner Voice Technique. Students do learn other popular acting techniques throughout the year.  Students receive a participation grade on studio days based on their willingness to try and put forth effort. 

Design/Tech and Creative/Management track students learn acting techniques as a foundation. It is important for students interested in these tracks to understand the process and needs of a performing artist for whom they are designing, directing, writing, or managing for in the theatre.

•  REFLECTION - Final 5 minutes of class

Students have a few minutes at the end of each studio class to to write a short reflection about what they learned in that particular class session. 

•  TRACK DAYS - two days a week

After warm-ups,  students work within their chosen track. Actors practice on scenes with a scene partner, group, or individually. Design/Tech and Creative/Management work on projects with their team.  On these project-based learning days, students will often be working on one of our current productions, preparing for competitions, or creating individual work.

SHOWCASE VIEWINGS

At the end of each quarter, students in all tracks will perform or present their work for a final grade (Exam).  At the end of each semester, a Showcase Viewing will be held for parents to attend so everyone can see the progress our students are making. 

GRADING

Grades are earned by participation. 

• Warm-ups

• Participation in Studio Classes

• Participation in Track work

• The Work - scenes, monologues, writing, design, etc: The products/performances created by students are graded based on a rubric that indicates the growth of the individual student in their chosen area.

The expectation is for each student to put forth effort and try. For grading expectations, students will create student-driven rubrics for Mr. Butler to utilize. By giving students the opportunity to create the rubric used for the class, the students have a deeper understanding and ownership of what is expected. Grades are not given - grades are earned. 

Q & A with Mr. Butler:

Q: I don't like performing in front of people. Can I still take theatre?

A: Absolutely. Keep in mind that Studio Day activities are group based. As your comfort level grows, you will come out of your shell and be able to do a short scene with a partner in front of the class. Even if you don't see yourself as an actor, all areas of the theatre require individuals to communicate effectively with others for pitches, presentations, and leadership roles. 

Q: Do I have to audition for the productions?

A: No. If you don't want to be in the play or musical as a performer, I hope you will work on the production team. If your schedule will not allow for that, I hope you will bring friends and come to the show!

Q: Can I work in more than one track? 

A: Yes. Often, students have varying interests in all areas of the theatre. Do as much as your schedule and brainpower will allow!

Q: How much time is involved in being in a production?

A: I will attempt to do a lot of rehearsals during school hours. However, we will have some afterschool and possible weekend rehearsals too. However, the rehearsal schedule is always made based on the availability of the students involved in the production. I try to be as flexible as possible.