Emma Willard School - GirlSummer 2008 Home

Performing arts

The performing arts program is open to actors of all levels, from first-timers to advanced. Some girls arrive with little experience on stage, but would like to gain self-confidence and poise in front of an audience; other students have more experience but would like to hone their skills.

Though specific activities vary depending on the teachers and the interests of the class, the performing arts program focuses on a few main areas and takes advantage of the variety of theater and rehearsal spaces on the Emma Willard campus.

All students work on the areas of performing arts described below.



Building blocks of acting

Learn the tools that professional actors use to create believable performances. Work on scene, character, stage direction, and the power of voice and movement.

Improv, monologue, & dialogue

What is funny? How can you get better at improvisation? Are you comfortable in front of an audience even when you are on the spot? Use improv skits to develop your timing and use of body language. Hone skills in monologue and dialogue through work on timing, delivery, intonation and emphasis in voice.

Dramatic acting

Bring your work on dance, movement, and improvisation onto the stage. Combine these skills with exploration in dramatic acting. Practice emotional expression and working with your cast mates to create specific tones on stage.

Musical Theater

Explore musical theater through Broadway and off-Broadway musicals. Bring dance and choreography to your stage performances.

Performing Arts is a very popular GirlSummer course, and each year, all students benefit from the tremendous amount that they learn. The session culminates in a final stage performance.