Theatre Arts at Faith Christian School
At FCS our theatre arts program is offered to elementary, middle, and high school students. The content and learning environments follow the NC Standard Course of Study and the National Standards for Arts Education. We have three basic levels of instruction to meet the needs of our students.
Creative Drama for Elementary School Students:
At the elementary level we offer Creative Drama which is the practice of teaching drama as a creative activity where the emphasis is on personal development of the participants rather than on performance or an audience. This is the most appropriate method of utilizing drama with K-5 learners and is also used with learners of all ages where the desired outcome is the development of the ability to make creative choices using the body, voice, and imagination. Creative drama is a very effective tool both for introducing learners to drama in a safe, low risk environment and for integrating with other elements in the core curriculum such as a unit of study or a particular piece of literature.
Introduction to Theatre for Middle School Students:
At the middle school level we offer Introduction to Theatre. For middle school students it is essential to offer drama with an emphasis on exploring and developing personal interests, skills, and knowledge related to multiple aspects of drama and theatre. An age appropriate exploration will include historical, performance, and technical aspects. Focus is on both personal development and beginning level mastery of content and skills associated with each aspect of drama. Improvisation and self-evaluation are key elements for these grades.
Performance Troupe
Our middle school students may also choose to join Performance Troupe during Enrichment time. This class provides a chance for students to develop their creativity, cooperation, confidence, and their acting skills. Each year the class takes on a culminating project to show case their work. In past years, we have performed scripted pieces, original pieces, and pieces adapted from literature.
Theatre Arts Electives for High School Students:
At the high school level students have the option to continue their exploration of theatre arts through elective choices. We offer Theatre Arts I, II, III, IV at both the Advanced and Honors level. For high school students our courses offer a more thorough investigation into theatre and includes content in performance and technical theatre with the emphasis on completing projects. Our high school theatre classes also contribute to each production by putting their learning to practical use including sewing, making props, painting, etc. We choose a culminating project each year that is appropriate for the skills and interests of the students in the class.
Extracurricular Program for Grades 3-12:
We offer a musical theatre performance opportunity outside of school hours to provide interested students with the chance to grow their skills in theatre arts. Since 2009, FCS has produced many shows including Broadway JR musicals, full-length musicals, Shakespeare, and straight plays. Students who audition for the extracurricular production are placed in roles to create the best possible experience for actors and audience alike. For larger cast shows, no students are cut from the show unless they fail to maintain a “C” or better in every class or have behavior issues (disrespect, unexcused absences from rehearsals, disobedience, etc.). Productions involve a serious time commitment and families should consider carefully if this will fit in with the other commitments that the student has made.
