Course Overview:
This class will help students explore and develop their love for musical theater, focusing on Catholic values, teamwork, collaboration, and character-building through the arts. We will study, rehearse, and perform selections from popular musical productions with an emphasis on personal growth and self-confidence through performance. Some examples of productions include Newsies and Sister Act Jr. The Musical. The goal is to create a supportive, creative, and faith-centered environment that fosters collaboration, hard work, and respect for one another.
Expectations:
- Respect: Students should come into class quietly, maintaining an atmosphere conducive to learning. Everyone should respect their classmates, the teacher, and any props or materials used in class.
- Active Participation: Students are expected to fully engage in all activities, from singing and acting to teamwork exercises. Collaboration is key to success in this class.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Working together is a central component of musical theater. Students will be encouraged to support each other both on and off the stage, creating a unified class community.
- Catholic Values: Students are expected to incorporate values such as kindness, respect, and compassion in their daily behavior. We will also reflect on themes of faith, love, and redemption that appear in many musical productions.
- Performance Etiquette: Students will learn theater terminology, rehearsal etiquette, and the importance of respecting others during performance.
- Care of Materials: All students should help keep the classroom tidy and return props or materials in good condition.
Behavioral Expectations:
- Quiet and Proper Entry/Exit: Students are expected to enter and leave class calmly and respectfully.
- Respectful Participation: Contribute positively to all activities. Respect for everyone’s voice and effort is crucial.
- Positive Attitude: Students should have an open, encouraging, and supportive attitude towards their peers.
- No Bullying: Negative behavior, including bullying or unkind remarks, will not be tolerated.
Consequences:
- 1st/2nd Infraction: Verbal Warning
- Persistent Misbehavior: Think Sheet and reflection
- Further Disruptions: Parents will be contacted via email, and a disciplinary warning will be issued.
- Severe or Repeated Misconduct: A referral will be made.
Late Policy: Arriving late will result in a 10-point deduction from class participation for the day.
Performances and Workshops:
- Christmas Concert
- Spring Musical (e.g., Sister Act Jr. or Newsies): These performances allow students to showcase their talents and gain valuable experience in a real performance setting.
Additional smaller performances and workshops will be held throughout the year.
Course Concepts:
- Theater Terminology & Etiquette: Students will become familiar with the language of theater, including terms like “blocking,” “cue,” “ensemble,” and “stage direction.”
- The History of Musical Theater: An exploration of musical theater’s roots, major composers, and significant works. We will delve into shows such as Newsies and Sister Act Jr. to understand the context and themes.
- Vocal Techniques & Development: Students will work on developing their singing voices, learning to perform solos and harmonies in an ensemble.
- Acting, Improvisation, & Playwriting: Through various exercises, students will practice acting and improvisation skills.
- Performance Analysis: Students will analyze performances, studying what makes them effective and how to apply those lessons to their own work.
Catholic Values in Musical Theater:
The theme of Catholicism will be woven through our performances, with a special focus on themes of forgiveness, redemption, and service. Through the stories told in musicals like Sister Act Jr., students will learn the importance of living out their faith in all aspects of life, including in the arts.
Let’s make this an exciting and enriching experience, filled with faith, collaboration, and fun!