Drama
Overview: North High Drama is a comprehensive theatrical program that produces a musical each fall (First two weekends in November) and a play in the spring (First weekend in March). There are opportunities to act, sing, dance, build sets, work on costume design and construction, make up, as well as, lights and sound.
Rehearsals for plays and musicals are usually 5 evenings a week and alternate between early (3:30-6:00) and late practices (6:00-9:00). The annual musical is a joint production with South High school and rehearsals are conducted at both schools. Actors usually rehearse most evenings and are expected to attend all rehearsals for their characters. The rehearsal process is typically 2.5 months, followed by two weekends of performances. We use a double casting system to increase participation. The play usually has 6 weeks of rehearsal and one weekend of performances.
Auditions for the musical are usually during the first week of the semester. There are auditions at both schools and actors may audition at either night of auditions. All are welcome to audition and no previous experience is needed. We pride ourselves on being a teaching centered program where student actors develop skills. Auditions for the Spring play are usually conducted around January 15.
Stage Crew
Constructs the sets and props for the plays and musicals and works to design and provide lights and sound. Stage crew meets after school and is usually 4:00-6:00 or it alternates opposite of the acting rehearsals. Students are encouraged to attend as often as possible but attendance is more flexible during the construction process. Students are required to be at all rehearsals and performances during the last two weeks. Stage crew begins in September and ends in the middle of November for the musical. For the spring play, Stage crew begins at the beginning of January and runs through the second week of March. Crew also helps with Dancers Among Us and Expo.
Pit Orchestra
Each year there is a combined North South Pit orchestra for the musical. Student musicians are encouraged to contact their music teacher if they are interested in participating. Rehearsals are usually 2-3 times a week for 6-8 weeks
Parents Needed
Each year we ask parents to help plan and provide late night meals during our last week of rehearsals. We also ask parents to help sell concessions during the performances. Concession fundraising supports drama awards and trips.
New York Drama Trips
Every other year we take theater students to New York City for a theater and cultural experience. The trip cost around $1,500 per person and is in early May. Students will see 5+ Broadway shows and have other educational activities throughout the trip. We travel Wednesday through Sunday. The next trips will be in 2022, 2024, 2026. Deposits of $500 are needed to secure the trip by October 1 in the school year that we are traveling
Awards & Recognition
Each spring there is a recognition night for students who participate in the drama program. Students are recognized for individual performances as well as longevity. There is a special recognition for students who participate in 7 or 8 productions while they are in high school. The banquet is combined with South and is held during the first two weeks of May.
Theater Arts Director
Sheila Ryan
mssheila212@gmail.com
Vocal Music Director
Josephine Annelin
jannelin@sasd.net
Technical Director
Mark Smies
Instrumental Music Director
Royal Gingery
rgingery@sasd.net