Theatre Arts I Course Documents So your son or daughter is into theatre . . .
What does that mean for you, the parents?
First and foremost, you're in for a great adventure. It's a wonderful creative outlet for your student. And, it's a great opportunity for you to see your child in a completely new light. Here are a few of the things other parents have passed on over the years.
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How many productions are there each year?
There are four “main stage” productions each year: two in the fall and two in the spring, with an optional spring musical. Students enrolled in the Advanced Studio Theatre Class (Theatre II and higher, enrollment based on auditions) are cast in that semester's play. In addition to the class production, a student directed piece is presented each semester, where all students, enrolled in theatre or not, can audition.
My child doesn't take theatre classes. Can they still participate in productions?
Absolutely! They can try out for the student directed plays or the musical. If they don't want to be on stage, we always need help with make-up, costumes, and set construction. About the only activities limited to students taking classes are the leadership tech positions and the advanced studio productions.
The week leading up to the first performance of any HHS Drama performance is called “hell week” because it’s the last chance to get everything done before the Big Night. And that means that there’s probably going to be a rehearsal every day after school and well into the evening. It’s exhausting, yes, but the students run on adrenaline – and food supplied by the Boosters – and learn what it means to really dedicate themselves to a common goal. As the saying goes, “it’s a good kind of tired.”
Do rehearsals during "hell week" really last until 10pm?
Yes, they sometimes do.
Typically, older students are the ones involved in the main stage productions and they have learned to balance their schoolwork and Theatre Dept. responsibilities. If your student is in a lower grade, have him or her ask an older Theatre student for advice!
While it is difficult to keep up with homework, many students do their work between sets or when they are not on stage. Think of it as the ultimate multi-tasking, and good training for the hectic life your child will have in college.
One tip for parents – the rehearsal schedule in the weeks leading up to a show is generally planned and posted ahead of time, so you can encourage your child to do as much work as possible ahead of time.
What's the process for getting involved in a production?
Your child should watch for audition notices. There will be posters around the school, morning announcements, and postings on the home page of this website. Otherwise, your child should contact Mr. Buttner, the theatre director. Either he or the stage manager will get in touch to determine the best fit.
Are there events other than shows I need to know about?
If your child is a theatre student, there are a variety of activities that happen throughout the year:
New York City trip (late May)
Students have the opportunity to travel to New York City and see a variety of on- and off-Broadway productions
Department Awards and End-of-the Gala (Mid-May)
This end-of-year celebration including student awards, Thespian inductions and a Senior Showcase of talent
Is my child expected to be in or at all the events?
Theatre students are expected to support the Theatre Department and their fellow students, but they certainly don't have to be on-stage or participate in all the productions and events. Mr. Buttner, the Theatre Director, makes participation requirements clear to all classes.
How can I get involved/help out?
The HSHS Fine Arts Boosters is a group of parents who work to support the theatre program at Holly Springs HS. Consider volunteering for something small. You might start with working concessions or tickets on show nights. This is a good way to get to know people and know the families of the students your child is hanging out with. It’s also a great way to stay connected with your child and their interests.
What if my child says he doesn't want me getting involved?
The short answer – don’t listen to them!
The longer one – even when our kids tell us not to be involved, generally they like to see their parents interested in their activities.
Sometimes they feel like they have to tell us not to be involved, as if to prove their independence. That’s part of the growing up process. If your child insists that you shouldn’t get involved, remind him or her that if every parent stayed away, the Fine Arts Boosters couldn’t do any of its fun activities. We need as many parents as we can to help!
Is there something I can do that lets me help without appearing too involved?
There are plenty of times and places that you can help without being “in the way” of your child. When there is a show running, you can be behind the concession stand, or sell flowers or tickets on show nights. Attend a Fine Arts Boosters meeting (which only adults attend!) and ask about behind-the-scenes fund-raising, publicity and other projects.