Theatre Arts Courses
McLean High School offers four theatre arts courses taught by Speech & Drama Teacher Phillip Reid.
Theatre Arts 1
Theatre Arts 1 is a foundations course that introduces students to dramatic literature, theatre history, technical theatre, artistic leadership, and acting. This course provides opportunities for students to experience and participate in the creative processes of performance and production. This course emphasizes skill development and provides theatrical opportunities that enable students to determine personal areas of interest. Participation in co-curricular activities and performances may be required to receive credit for this course. This course may be used to satisfy the graduation requirement for a credit in fine arts.
Theatre Arts 2
Theatre Arts 2 integrates and builds upon concepts and skills from Theatre Arts 1. Through various modes of expression and performance, students explore dramatic literature, theatrical styles, and historical periods. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences that will refine their communicative, collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem solving skills. Students will expand their artistic abilities and appreciation of theatre arts. Participation in co-curricular activities and performances may be required to receive credit for this course. This course may be used to satisfy the graduation requirement for a credit in fine arts.
Theatre Arts 3
Students exhibit independence, discipline, and commitment to the theatrical process through their work on assigned projects. Advanced work in script analysis, character interpretation, and performance skills are expected. Collaboration with actors and directors is augmented by special assignments and opportunities. Participation in co-curricular activities and performances may be required to receive credit for this course. This course may be used to satisfy the graduation requirement for a credit in fine arts.
Theatre Arts 4
Students identify areas of special interest in theatre arts, and initiate and complete major research and/or creative projects, such as playwriting, producing, directing, designing, and stage-managing. Emphasis is placed on in-depth study and completion of projects, assumption of leadership roles, and expansion of criteria for self-evaluation. Students will analyze and evaluate scripts, concentrate on vocal and physical dramatics, and undertake a special theatre project in their area of specialization. Participation in major projects related to the co-curricular theatre productions may be expected. Participation in co-curricular activities and performances may be required to receive credit for this course. This course may be used to satisfy the graduation requirement for a credit in fine arts.