Performing Arts
The Performing Arts at Derby help children build collaboration, self-confidence, teamwork, patience, and dedication.
Throughout their education, our students develop their imaginations and learn how to make specific choices when playing a character. This work builds confidence in communication skills and prepares students for future dramatic productions at Derby.
Starting as early as Pre-K and continuing through Grade 8, students benefit from performance opportunities, as well as expert instruction in acting, voice, choreography, and all “behind the scenes” technical areas.
Dance
Through movement, students explore various dance forms and play an integral role in picking music and choreography. Although technique is encouraged throughout, our primary goal is to engage storytelling through movement. Through participation in the musicals, holiday performance, and Dance, students can deepen their understanding of music, lyrics, and character. Guest artists are invited to teach a masterclass or choreograph to enhance the main stage musical.
Theatre
Our students explore the expressive and expansive world of theatre; from excelling on our Larson Hall stage as actors, singers, and dancers; to designing and building sets; to creating show programs; as well as operating the lighting and sound booth for all productions.
Derby’s musical productions introduce students to various composers, librettists, and choreographers. Actors learn the importance of camaraderie, hard work, and focus. They are also encouraged to practice proper vocal technique and deliver text or music while understanding certain nuances or traits that make a character believable.
In the areas of stagecraft and theater tech, students are taught about the in-depth process of set design, involving both personal creativity and collaboration to take a design from conception to finished scenery. Costumes and set design are introduced to deepen their understanding of the story and the actor’s work
Along with assisting with designing and building sets, Upper School students serve as the backstage running crew for shows, running the digital soundboard and lighting in our Larson Hall booth for all productions.
