This course is designed to guide students to become strong writers, engaged readers, and fluent speakers of critical thoughts and ideas. I am looking forward to an interesting and productive year full of reading and writing. 

In this class, you will be challenged to think critically and creatively as we encounter important issues that are relevant to our lives. We will also study significant literary works in order to develop ethical, aesthetic, and cultural awareness. I will do all I can to help you learn and develop as individuals; however, this can only be achieved if you take a proactive role in your education. The standards are high, but you can reach them through dedication, a positive attitude, and practice.

This introductory course is designed to help students establish a foundation in drama. Students will learn and develop acting techniques–such as voice control, timing, characterization, blocking, and movement– as they read and study dramatic literature, explore musical theater, and learn various theatrical elements. More than anything, the course is designed to enhance theater appreciation and provide students an outlet for self-expression and creativity. 

This is a hands-on class, and students WILL perform DURING the class period. As beginners, students may be anxious or nervous about performing in front of their peers. Anyone who has ever acted (myself included) remembers those initial anxieties and insecurities well. Learning to combat and conquer those anxieties is as important a skill to learn as any other skill or technique I can teach. Before performing, students will have ample time to rehearse and will have participated in learning activities related to the performance. By the end of the year, my goal is for each student to have increased their knowledge and appreciation of theater, as well as their confidence as an individual. 

In this intensive course, actors develop a deeper understanding of theater and production from different cultural and historical perspectives and build upon past theater experiences. This is an audition-based class that will strengthen and enhance skills in ensemble work, movement, voice, scene and play analysis, playwriting, directing, and musical theater. Scene work will include an emphasis on character development and emotional truth, improvisational skills, character analysis and performance, audition skills, and career paths. Students will participate in theater festivals and experience live theater. Students will also work on the production elements of theater, such as set, lighting, and sound design; stage directing; promotion; and writing original works for performance.