Middle School Courses
DSA Theatre art studios are designed to accommodate more than one year of growth. Progression from level to level is determined by teacher recommendation and is based on demonstration of skills, readiness for more challenging curriculum, strong work ethic, and ability to work independently.
Introduction to Theatre
Welcome to Introduction to Theatre and the wonderful, magical Black Box Theatre! This 6th grade theatre class is an introduction to the acting and theatrical production process with an emphasis on collaboration. Students learn to utilize basic actor’s tools through the exploration of creating a character, using their body and voice in interesting ways, and demonstrating effective stage movement. They Learn to develop their own material through the use of improvisation, as well as scripted material.
GRADE 6
MS Studio
In this class, students will build upon previously learned skills to portray more compelling characters and complex scenes. Students will use various creative drama techniques to build ensemble, stimulate imagination, movement, and role-play with an emphasis on movement and stage presence. Students will focus on realistic acting, commanding audience attention, and developing a stage presence. They will understand and follow stage directions, and use proper techniques for body and voice control. Students will learn and discuss the basic elements of drama to better understand and analyze characters and scripted material. Students will also learn different aspects of technical theatre and design. Students will exhibit and reinforce their skills through individual and group presentations, performances, and script and journal writing.
GRADE 8
Creative Dramatics
This course is an introductory level exploration of the performing art of theatre - both on and backstage. Seventh graders will work together to create a class ensemble that works cohesively and imaginatively to perform improvisations, short performances, and a semester showcase. Students will discuss theatre’s application to other forms of media, their education, and future careers. First quarter will focus on hands-on theatre basics such as: projection, breath control, stage movement, pantomime, improv, monologues, and group performance. Second quarter the course will move into technical theatre.
GRADE 7
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Introduction to
Stage Craft
In this class, students will build upon previously learned skills. This course will meet during one of the HS Tech 1 classes and is open to 8th graders who have demonstrated excellent skills and motivational development during and interest in technical theatre during their 7th-grade theatre arts courses. Students will also learn different aspects of technical theatre and design. Students will exhibit and reinforce their skills through hands-on work, individual and group presentations, critiquing performances and script analysis.
There is a cap of 10 students.
GRADE 8