Performing Arts I (Theatre Arts I)
5 credits
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
This full year course is an in-depth introduction to the theatre arts and the use of the solo voice as it applies to both musical and dramatic performances. Students will explore and gain experience in the basic elements of theatre rehearsal and performance, including stage movement and blocking, concentration and imagination, memorization and improvisation, and elements of theatre history. Students will also acquire a working knowledge of various technical theatre equipment and terminology. The course will include vocal training on a regular basis and performance projects will focus on the healthy use of the singing and speaking voice. Students with no previous musical training will acquire a basic facility with musical notation, and the music used in class and for public performances will be drawn mainly from Broadway Musical Theatre literature, Rock Opera, and various rock, jazz and pop styles. Students are required to participate in several evening public performances, which are considered part of the course of study.

Performing Arts II (Theatre Arts II)
5 credits
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
This full year course is an extension of the material and techniques covered in Performing Arts I. Solo and small group vocal training will continue and more advanced musical material will be selected, as appropriate. In addition, students will be fully introduced to the concepts of character development (with monologue and scene projects dedicated mainly to the art of creating a unique and original character) and directing for the stage (including discussion, theory and practical experience in stage direction.) Scene work will be more extensive and involve more advanced material. Students will have the opportunity to direct other student actors in a scene or one act play to be prepared for public performance. Prerequisite: Satisfactory performance in Performing Arts/Chorus I or department approval.

Performing Arts III (Theatre Arts III)
5 credits
Grades 10, 11, 12
This full year course is a logical extension of the material and techniques covered in Performing Arts II, and a forum for further growth and development. In addition to more advanced and intense script study, character work and movement, and a continued commitment to improvement as a musician and vocalist students will explore the elements of producing a play, focusing on the business and technical aspects as well as rehearsal scheduling and procedure. This course will culminate in a final class project wherein the students have the opportunity to participate in the production of a full length play or one-act festival. Students will be required to commit extensive time outside of class for this culminating year end project. This class production will be primarily produced, directed and acted by students, with a student-run technical crew and public relations committee. Prerequisite: Satisfactory performance in Performing Arts II or department approval.