November Gifts
November 12, 2022Theatre – alive and well in Maine high schools
One of the best parts about November is that high schools across Maine provide opportunities for students to perform in theatre productions. The added benefits to our state are many! People of all ages can engage in stories, some old and classic, and some newer. The community including parents, children, seniors, retired folks and anyone who lives in the town where the school is located, as well as surrounding towns, have a chance to watch, listen and learn as teens take to the stage. There aren’t many opportunities during a school year for citizens to enter our school buildings. These performances can serve as advocacy for not only theatre programs but dance, music, and visual art since all of the arts are often utilized through the theatre production.
The skills and experiences gained through participation in theatre productions are not learned elsewhere!
CONGRATULATIONS…
…to all the high schoolers taking part in plays. I know that to give your best performance you have practiced for many days and weeks which amount to many hours while still keeping up with attending classes and doing homework. You’ve worked individually and with your peers practicing lines, your position on stage with how and where and when to move. You have collaborated with teachers, actors, light and sound students, costume and make up people. Your success relies on the commitment and cooperation of a huge number of people.
THANK YOU…
…to all the educators who give opening of their time after the normal school day to support the many students who participate in the theatre program. I know we have some Maine schools with theatre teachers who provide classes during the day that contribute to the production but most are doing this work after school. Your patience, kindness, and influence inspiring theatre students is amazing.
SUPPORT…
We know that it takes many people beyond the actors and teachers who help support the production in many different ways. Thank you to all of you lovers of the theatre and students who participate. I encourage everyone reading this blog post to attend a play going on at your local high school. Nothing like a full house to feel appreciated when performing!
The following are a few of the plays that are taking place in the next couple of weeks. If you are aware of others please email me at meartsed@gmail.com and I’d be glad to add them to this blog post. Thanks!
Thornton Academy, Saco presents The Odyssey. MORE INFORMATION!
Camden Hills Regional High School presents Mamma Mia! MORE INFORMATION!
Medomak Valley High School, Waldoboro presents Hello Dolly! MORE INFORMATION!
Waterville Senior High School presents Momma Mia! LEARN MORE!
Belfast High School present Grease. MORE INFORMATION!
Orono High School presents Mamma Mia! MORE INFORMATION!
Mount Desert Island High School presents Oliver! MORE INFORMATION!
me arts ed 
Hi Argy,
Thursday, I attended Fryeburg Academyâs opening night of the musical, Anastasia. It was without a doubt the best high school production I have seen, and Iâve seen a lot in my time! Mostly students comprised the pit band, and the singing was so strong. Usually a couple of lead characters have wonderful voices, but some of the others and the ensemble may be weak or mediocre. Not so in this production. The choreography was clever and very well done, and the set was built by the newly retired Lake Region industrial arts teacher whose two sons were in the production. Oh, and the costume designer is someone in demand in NYC and throughout the North East. Unfortunately, tonight is the last show. I am so glad I went.
Kennebunk HS also did Anastasia November 3-6.
Take care, Jenni