Academy of Performing Arts

Students explore theatre performance, technical production, and music pathways while building confidence, collaboration, discipline, and artistic expression. Coursework spans acting, stage design, vocal performance, lighting, sound design, and production management.

Students gain authentic performance and production experience that prepares them for university programs in theatre, music, communications, and performing arts, as well as careers such as:

Actor or Performer

Stage Manager

Lighting or Sound Technician

Set or Costume Designer

Production Assistant

Vocal Performer

Music Director

Arts Administrator

This pathway supports both collegiate arts programs and direct entry into creative and production-based fields.

Theater Courses

Theatre 1 (#0400310)

This course is designed for students with little or no theatre experience and promotes enjoyment and appreciation for all aspects of theatre. Classwork focuses on the exploration of theatre literature, performance, historical and cultural connections, and technical requirements. Improvisation, creative dramatics, and beginning scene work are used to introduce students to acting and character development. Incorporation of other art forms in theatre also helps students gain appreciation for other art forms, such as music, dance, and visual art.

Theatre 2 (#0400010)

Prerequisite: Theatre 1 Technical Theatre Design & Production 1 (#0400410)

Students focus on developing the basic tools and procedures for creating elements of technical theatre, including costumes, lighting, makeup, properties (props), publicity, scenery, and sound. Technical knowledge of safety procedures and demonstrated safe operation of theatre equipment, tools, and raw materials are central to success in this course.

Students explore and learn to analyze dramatic scripts, seeking production solutions through historical, cultural, and geographic research. Students also learn the basics of standard conventions of design presentation and documentation; the organizational structure of theatre production and creative work in a collaborative environment; and the resulting artistic improvement. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend or participate in technical work, rehearsals, and/or performances beyond the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.

Technical Theatre Design & Production 2 (#0400420)

Prerequisite: Technical Theatre Design & Production 1

Technical Theatre Design & Production 3 (#0400430)

Prerequisite: Technical Theatre Design & Production 2

Technical Theatre Design & Production 4 (#0400440)

Prerequisite: Technical Theatre Design & Production 3

Music Courses

Beginning Chorus (#130330)

Chorus for beginning-level singers or students interested in singing who have not sung before. Sing as part of an ensemble with other learners and learn basic rhythms, notes, and singing techniques. Performance opportunities throughout the year

Advanced Chorus Honors (#1303340)

Chorus for experienced singers. Audition required. Refine vocal technique and ensemble singing, discuss and learn more about the historical context of songs and music. Graded performances.

General Music (#1300300)

Elective for learning about basics of reading music, rhythms, intervals, chords, music history, basic piano keyboard skills, and digital music. Prerequisites: Passing grade in Intro to Music or experience reading music on at least one instrument/voice (can read one clef)

Guitar Class (#1301320)

Learn basics of reading music, tablature, and different chord symbols through playing acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or bass guitar (students must provide their own guitar). Opportunities for performance will be available throughout the year.