In a unique high school course, students are diving into the world of theater production, learning the intricate details that go into staging a musical. Focused on "Anything Goes," these young learners are gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of production, from lighting and sound to costume design and set creation. The course offers an all-encompassing view of what it takes to bring a theatrical performance to life, providing valuable skills and insights into the entertainment industry.

Learning the Art of Stagecraft

Theater teacher Brooke Hardman Ditchfield has designed a comprehensive curriculum aimed at exposing students to every facet of production. From organizing schedules to understanding the technical elements, students are immersed in a real-world theater environment. They learn how to create shared documents for collaborative work, study scripts, and watch past performances to gain inspiration. This practical approach ensures they develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Ditchfield emphasizes the importance of documentation, teaching students how to record blocking, staging, and technical cues. These records serve as essential tools for directors and stage managers, ensuring consistency and flexibility in rehearsals and performances. Through this process, students not only learn the technicalities but also understand the significance of thorough preparation. For instance, Michael Waters, who specializes in lighting and sound, highlights the potential career opportunities that arise from mastering these skills. He notes that local companies often hire students for event setups, providing them with early professional experiences.

Beyond the Spotlight: Crafting the Unseen Elements

The production class delves deep into areas that remain hidden from the audience's view. Costume design is one such area where students explore outfitting 41 cast members. With an extensive collection built over a decade, they select and sometimes create costumes tailored to each character. Learning to prepare purchase orders for items like sailor outfits further enhances their organizational skills. Set design, guided by mentor Brad Austin, challenges students to visualize and build the stage environment. Discussions about color schemes and structural elements lead to creative mockups that eventually become tangible sets.

Budgeting and marketing are also integral parts of the curriculum. Students learn to balance financial constraints with artistic vision, designing posters and writing press releases. Two students even take on the role of stage managers, coordinating activities backstage. Henry Shank and William Thorton share their experiences, highlighting the rewarding yet challenging nature of their roles. Ditchfield reflects on the broader impact of the course, noting that it equips students with immediately employable skills, potentially reducing the need to import talent from off-island. Ultimately, the final exam—the actual production—gives students a taste of real-life theater, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and dedication.