Film and Theatre
We offer the following comprehensive courses and programs from Pre K through 12 grade
Drama in the Elementary School
Drama is an invaluable part of the ISP curriculum that promotes students' confidence and self-expression. Using drama, students learn through their own experience and through the experiences of others, develop confidence in their verbal and non- verbal communication, and practice collaboration. Drama provides young people with a chance to practice self- regulation, while developing a different way of "knowing" themselves and the world around them. Formal and informal opportunities to perform are built into the curriculum.
Theater in the Middle School
Grade 6
Theatre is a part of the exploratory wheel in the Grade 6 year. The focus of this quarter long class is to increase self confidence in performing on stage and working with peers in creating Theatrical presentations. Classwork includes learning more about Voice, Body Movements, Ensemble and Duo Scenes. and the elements of Theatre including backstage and technical aspects. The goal at the end of the class is to have students feel comfortable and proud in creating a final Ensemble piece performed for an audience.
Grade 7 & 8: (Music and Theater combined)
Through the exploration and practice of performing arts, students gain a deeper understanding of the world as a whole and will develop more advanced artistry. This course is designed to help young artists gain musical & theatrical literacy, while having a safe environment to explore their personal expression. Students will be encouraged to explore previous passions and interests, as well as new learning to develop artistry through independent work, small group projects, and large ensembles. This exploration through rehearsal, personal practice, journal-writing, and research will culminate in performances and projects that celebrate student achievement.
Theater in the High School
Elective options:
Film and Theater
Students will learn the production aspects of theater and film through collaborative practical exploration. After reviewing and analyzing film techniques, students will work as a film crew to produce their own short film, taking on the various roles involved, such as cinematographer, make up artist and sound technician. They will also develop the skills necessary to run a live event in the Performing Arts Center, designing and operating the lights and sound. Students will study theater from the perspective of the Director, Designer and Performer. This course is a great choice for actors and non actors alike, as there is a choice in which production role they would like to explore.
Stagecraft
Students will learn the skills and processes associated with scenic production, including set design, construction, and realization. Students work to a brief towards supporting the staging of a live event in the Performing Arts Center. This is an excellent hands on course whereby students learn how to safely operate construction tools as well as exercise their creativity to bring abstract ideas to life.
IB Theater
The IB Diploma Program theater course is a multifaceted theater-making course of study. It gives students the opportunity to make theater as creators, designers, directors and performers. It emphasizes the importance of working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. It offers the opportunity to engage actively in the creative process, transforming ideas into action as inquisitive and productive artists.
Students experience the course from contrasting artistic perspectives. They learn to apply research and theory to inform and to contextualize their work. The theater course encourages students to appreciate that through the processes of researching, creating, preparing, presenting and critically reflecting on theater— as participants and audience members—they gain a richer understanding of themselves, their community and the world.
ISP is a proud member of the International Schools Theater Association (ISTA)