Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Drama I introduces the student to various aspects of the theatre with the primary focus on acting. Improvisation, pantomime, scene study and theatre terminology and theatre history are integral parts of the program. Students will be encouraged to explore their own creative potential in a supportive, yet challenging learning environment.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Drama II is an advanced course designed for students who wish to continue their study of acting. Character development, scene study, audition technique, and directing will be integral elements of the course.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

This class is for the serious theatre student interested in getting time on the stage. The class will collaborate on writing or finding a suitable show for the students in the class, audition for their role in the show and rehearse the play in class. Audition and advanced acting techniques will be taught and utilized. **This course will be offered every other year. The next offering is 2022-2023.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Intro to Music is an introductory class that provides students with a chance to learn the basics of music through performance. Students will learn how to read music as well as develop the basic skills required to perform on a variety of instruments. Aspects of music theory and history will also be covered through applied learning projects. No previous musical experience is necessary. On completion of the class, students may progress and continue their studies in either vocal or instrumental music ensembles for the following year.

Grades: 11, 12

This class is focused on the creation of music and media using technology. Arranging and editing musical projects and evaluating the merit of musical content are also covered. Students will learn computer-based techniques for creating, recording, and producing projects on GarageBand, Sibelius, Finale, Photoshop, and iMovie. Class members will also be taught about the history of music in film and how to create multi-media presentations. This class fulfills a Fine/Performing Arts or Technology credit requirement.

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Music Theory and History is a non-performance course open to those students with an interest in learning the basic rudiments, structures, and elements of music. The history curriculum covers both musical and historical developments from the early Catholic Church through to present day. Topics covered include Gregorian Chant, Music at Notre Dame, the Baroque and Classical eras, the Nineteenth Century (Nationalistic Music, Tchaikovsky’s Ballet music, and traditions in German and Italian Opera), Jazz and Blues, Serialism and American Musical Theatre.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Students learn the purpose of theatre, how to read a script, and the basics of 4 design elements of theatre: set design, sound design, lighting design, and costume design. They will learn tool safety and usage, painting techniques, and construction techniques, as well as how to draft and read draftings of designs. Painting and set construction/installation of sets will be part of class time and a small number of hours will be required outside of class time. This course can be taken multiple times. This class size is limited to 15.