Theater Arts

Generations of students have found their home in the lower level of Ryken Center for the Arts, whether as an actor, a stage manager, a lighting technician, sound designer, or just a spectator supporting their friends. Theater at St. John's has a unique and inviting culture that is entirely its own. 

Theater in the Classroom

Theater arts has a firm spot in the curriculum both in the Middle and High School. In sixth, seventh, and eighth grade, students take drama as part of their fine arts rotation. In the High School, students can take any number of theater arts-focused courses like play production, acting, or design for theater.  

Classroom settings are primarily hands-on and workshop-style as learners investigate basic to advanced techniques of speaking, listening, scene-building, tactical interplay, and voice/body integration for stage. Across the program of studies, the focus is on students having the space and time to refine their acting, auditioning, and public speaking skills while taking advantage of opportunities that encourage collaboration and build self-confidence
 
Playwriting and directing instruction are also part of the curriculum, including playmaking, literary skills, character, and plot development. Lighting, sound, and set design for stage are also options as learners explore scenic painting, costume/wardrobe design, and technical theater skills. Through such diverse training, students receive a strong foundation that can help them transition into the professional arts or further study in higher education.

Fall Productions

Each fall the Drama Guild stages a musical, sometimes in collaboration with the Middle School Drama Guild. Musical productions give every student the opportunity to be a part of the process, from auditioning for acting roles to learning the ins-and-outs of technical, behind-the-scenes work.