Performing Arts

Students will be introduced to a wide range of techniques aimed at building their “actor’s toolkit.” This is an essential set of skills that gives the actor a tried and true method of working on material and collaborating with other theatermakers. With a foundation in the Stanislavski system, actors will sample Meisner technique, Practical Aesthetics and ensemble devising, all in an effort to answer the question: who am I as an artist? This program is also designed both to prepare students for the college audition process, and help them make informed choices about which college program they may want to attend if they choose to explore B.F.A. performing arts programs.

CAA Performing Arts Requirements

Minimum of one term of History of the Creative Arts and/or Technical Theatre
Minimum of one term of music elective
Minimum of three terms of performing arts electives
Development of portfolio/book/reel that reflects their particular focus in the performing arts
Maintenance of “book/reel” throughout participation in program
Final presentation/showcase of work during Senior year
An “Artist’s Statement” to accompany the culminating event, answering, for a final time in the Upper School, the question “Who am I as an artist?”
Annual participation in Creative Arts Night
Participation in eight total productions (Fall Musical, Devised Theatermaking Ensemble, Spring Play)

Performing Arts Courses

Lighting & Design: Student Video

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a Sun Valley Community School theater performance? Or Senior Projects? Upper School and Creative Arts Academy graduate Gabe Delgado '21 is passionate about theater lighting and design and is currently on the CAA's "tech track". His dedication runs so deep that he created this video to explain what inspires him to do the best he can do to make our performances stand out. We love that our CAA students can hone their skills both on and off the stage!

The Creative Arts academy has not only given me an outlet to express my creativity, but has allowed me to build a practical set of artistic tools to use in the real world. The arts is an outlet for me in which I can live a vulnerable, authentic life.Rye '21,
Drama student at NYU/Tisch School of the Arts