Theater Arts

York Country Day School provides classes in Performing Arts for all middle and upper school students. Performance opportunities are available at both levels through scheduled classes, live plays and musicals, and magnet presentations.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

All middle school students participate in Performing Arts Classes. Middle school students will focus on the actor’s tools as they develop both creative and technical skills for the stage. Class work includes improvisation, stage terminology, and beginning monologue and scene work. Emphasis is placed on artistic choices the actor makes for the stage and practical application of skills for performance.

Middle School students have the opportunity to participate in a musical production each year.

UPPER SCHOOL

Upper School students can increase their skills with Introduction to Theater and Acting classes. Students will work in the method, focusing on characters goals while using a variety of exercises. They will increase their connection to other actors, commitment to the acting moment, and ability to make strong choices while expanding their experience through monologues, scene work, and theatre games.

Performing Arts Magnet students have great freedom to explore and express themselves. A Performing Arts Magnet can be described as an independent study course. In the past students have performed an evening of one act plays, created costumes for a show, designed make up plots, researched the work of and contacted their favorite actors, and analyzed the writings of famous playwrights. Student’s projects are guided by an advisor, and the possibilities are endless! Any student who completes four Performing Arts Magnets in their Upper School career will receive a special designation on their diploma which recognizes their achievements.

Upper School students have the opportunity to audition for the fall play or the spring musical. In addition to performance, student technicians can participate through stage management, lighting, sound, props, and set design and construction.