Best In Show

At Country Day, every student has the chance to shine, as young as junior kindergarten, as they perform in frontof peers, parents, and faculty. While it’s fun for parents to see their little ones on stage, these performances, which are often curriculum-based, also help build confidence and allow students to develop communication and public speaking skills. “These are vital 21st century competencies that will prepare our children for future success,” explains Bill Mulcahy, head of Lower School. “By fourth grade it’s natural for our students to go on stage and perform, at a time in many kids’ lives when it doesn’t feel natural or comfortable at all.”

The progression of performance skills continues through Middle School and culminates in Upper School with 10 theater arts courses and participation in award-winning productions. Turn the page to read two perspectives on the value of arts education and the power of theater to bring out the very best in students.

THEATER ARTS AT A GLANCE

• Seven 2018 Blumey Award nominations for The Drowsy Chaperone, including Best Musical

• Back-to-back state championships for one-act plays in 2017 and 2018

• Southeastern Theatre Conference runner-up and Best Director award

• Multiple awards for direction, production design, choreography, and acting from the NC Theatre Association

• Three dedicated drama instructors, one at each division

• Across all divisions, the theatre arts program involves:

• 878 cast members and 40 crew members

• 53 performances per year

• 275 parent and faculty volunteers

• 530+ hours of rehearsal