Meet your Teacher!
Ms. Wilkinson is an Actor, Director, Stage Manager, and Scenic Designer from South Jersey, who recently graduated from Montclair State University with her Bachelor of the Arts in K-12 Theatre Education. Ms. Wilkinson has been performing since she was 7 years old, and has dedicated practically her entire life to creating, performing, programming, and teaching theatre! Her passion for the Theatre and Film has only grown stronger throughout the years, and she looks forward to showing the students of LCJSMS how truly important, fun, and educational Theatre and Film can be! For any questions, please email Ms. Wilkinson at jwilkinson@summit.k12.nj.us
Welcome to Stagecraft! In Stagecraft, over the course of 12 weeks, students will explore the many behind-the-scenes elements that bring live theater to life. Throughout the course, we’ll study key areas of theatrical design, including design history, scenic design, prop design, costume design, hair and makeup, sound, and lighting. Students will learn how each technical element supports storytelling and mood on stage, gaining hands-on experience through creative projects and collaborative work. The class will culminate in an exciting final project, where each student will select one area of focus—costume design, lighting design, or scenic design—and create a fully developed concept for a show of their choice. By the end of the term, students will have built a comprehensive design portfolio showcasing their work, giving them a strong foundation to carry into high school theater programs and beyond.
Welcome to Drama! Over the next six weeks, we’ll dive into the world of theater through an introduction to performance, theater history, and improvisation Together, we’ll explore dramatic literature from across time periods and cultures, while discovering the many roles available in theatrical productions—both onstage and behind the curtain. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to try something new. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or brand new to the stage, this class invites you to take risks, support your peers, and enjoy the journey into theater together. I’m so excited to begin this creative adventure with you!
Welcome to Musical Theater Workshop! Over the course of six weeks, this course builds upon your previous experience in music and drama by immersing you in the exciting process of creating and performing an original musical. Students will collaborate in production teams to write, design, and stage a series of short musical scenes that feature solos, duets, and ensemble numbers. This workshop offers a hands-on approach to learning a range of theater roles, from acting and dancing to composing, writing lyrics, and working behind the scenes.. Get ready to explore your talents and stretch your imagination in this one-of-a-kind experience.
In this 6-week course, students explore the art of film through character, story, and script. We'll start by analyzing how memorable characters are created, then move into storytelling techniques, genres, and the cultural influences behind movies. Finally, students will try their hand at scriptwriting and film critique. Along the way, they’ll make connections to literature, history, and art while gaining a deeper appreciation for global cinema and storytelling.
In this 12-week course, students dive into the world of multimedia storytelling and hands-on video creation. We’ll start with the basics—how film works, how visuals and sound shape a story, and what makes a great shot. Students will learn editing, animation, and special effects, and apply those skills to real projects. The class wraps up with students planning, filming, and editing their own short films to showcase their creativity and technical know-how.