Health and safety guidelines have infused a new level of creativity into all our fine arts performances this year, and last weekend was no different. Academy Theatre’s production of Disney’s High School Musical took place outdoors on the steps of the Fine Arts Center.
Audiences shivered, laughed, and sang along to familiar tunes while snacking on popcorn and churros from Wheaton Academy’s new food truck, The Shack. Despite the unique challenges of an outdoor show, students were thrilled for another opportunity to perform.
To me, acting is a way to show compassion to people who aren’t like you. You can find a way to relate to any character you play as well as understand people that aren’t like yourself through story. It stops judgement and helps me learn more about how broken people are. It’s a way to help me learn compassion in a Christ-like setting!
Anastasia, Ms. Darbus the Drama Teacher
My favorite part is definitely spending time with the cast, building community. It’s cool to see the relationships built when we’re all working together to achieve the same goal. It’s such a safe environment to grow in what we love to do and encourage each other.
Tommy, Troy Bolton
I love the relationships that I’ve made during shows. The best shows I have been in are not the ones where I have the biggest part but the ones where the cast is the most like a family.
Hannah, Sharpay Evans
The most enjoyable aspect of the annual musical is the accepting and inclusive environment that the cast and directors create. Everybody’s unique personality is acknowledged and appreciated and we make it our goal to ensure that rehearsals are a safe environment to take risks without judgment from others.
Westen, Mr. Tenney the Chemistry Teacher
Our alumni have gone on to perform on Broadway National Tours, to become lead actors in movies and TV shows, and even to win Grammy Awards. Find out how you can be equipped as a performer and artist through our Fine Arts programs.