Theater Department » Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts

The UASPA Department of Theatre offers an intensive 4-year curriculum that is designed to broaden students' knowledge and appreciation for all areas of theatre.  Throughout the program students will develop a foundation in acting, directing, playwriting, design, theatre history, and theatre criticism all while improving their public speaking, organizational, and collaboration skills.  Outside of the arts, the program also improves reading comprehension and interpretation and provides a sociological view of Western history.
 
The curriculum culminates in each senior participating in the NYC Theatre Commencement Exam which earns them a Chancellor's Diploma with Recognition in Theatre.
 
Beyond the classroom, students have opportunities to perform in school productions and take advantage of our ongoing Epic Theatre Ensemble residency where students re-imagine the classic works of Shakespeare and the Greeks through a modern lens.  The school department also partners with The Theatre Development Fund (TDF) as a member of the Wendy Wasserstein Project which provides a unique opportunity for eight 11th & 12th grade students to see six professional shows under the guidance of a professional mentor.  
 
9th Grade Curriculum:
The Actor's Body and Pantomime
The Actor's Voice and Vocal Interpretation
Creating a Character:  The Character Interview
Scene Work
Introduction to Theatre History and Terminology
 
10th Grade Curriculum:
Intermediate Scene Work
Theatre Interpretation and Criticism
Theatre Design (Costume, Set, Lights, Publicity)
Acting for the Camera
Introduction to Theatre Production (Departmental Play)
History of the Musical
 
11th Grade Curriculum:
Advanced Scene Work
Classical Monologues and Soliloquies
Introduction to Directing (Portfolios)
Playwriting
Theatre Production (Departmental Play)
History of Experimental Theatre
 
12th Grade Curriculum:
College/Professional 2-Monologue Auditions and Theatrical Resumes
Directing Fishbowl Demonstration
Senior Projects
Theatre Production (Departmental Play)
Advanced Criticism and Analytical Theatrical Thought
 
 
 
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT MR. SEEFRIED, THE DIRECTOR OF THEATRE ARTS, AT [email protected].