Theatre at ISI

Theatre Curriculum

Students in Grades 6–12 have the opportunity to study theatre as part of ISI's comprehensive arts program. In Middle School, students rotate through visual arts, music, and drama, allowing them to experience a variety of artistic disciplines. As they progress into High School, students can choose to focus on the arts pathway that best matches their interests and talents, building upon the skills and concepts introduced in earlier grades.

The Theatre course introduces students to the fundamentals of theatre while encouraging creative expression and collaboration. Through performance-based learning, students develop an understanding of theatrical techniques, stage conventions, and storytelling while strengthening important communication skills, including spatial awareness, facial expression, movement, and body language.

Students explore theatre through imaginative, hands-on experiences such as creating tableaux, developing original performances, and interpreting stories from a variety of cultural perspectives. Along the way, they learn to work collaboratively, think creatively, and communicate effectively, both on stage and as respectful audience members.

Theatre Productions

Students in the Upper School are encouraged to participate in ISI's after-school theatre productions, whether on stage or behind the scenes.

Opportunities include:

• Performing as cast members
• Costume and makeup design
• Set design and construction
• Stage management
• Assistant directing (Grades 9–12)

Assistant Directors and Stage Managers are selected by the theatre teacher based on their dedication, leadership, and contributions to the theatre program.

ISI believes every student should have the opportunity to be involved in theatre. All eligible students who audition are offered a role in each production. Casting decisions are made through the audition process, while technical crew assignments are determined in collaboration with faculty and student directors.

Each school year features opportunities for students to showcase their talents through multiple productions, including:

Fall: Middle School Play
Winter: High School Play

Students participating as cast or crew members are required to pay a $100 Theatre Production Participation Fee, which helps cover the cost of costumes, props, set materials, and meals or snacks during extended rehearsals and performances. Student directors are exempt from this fee.

Production tickets will be available here.

Expectations for Participants

Successful productions depend on teamwork, responsibility, and commitment. For each production, cast members, crew, student directors, and faculty directors agree to a participation contract outlining expectations for rehearsals, performances, academic standing, and behavior. These guidelines help create a positive and supportive environment for everyone involved. If the agreement is not upheld, faculty and school administrators will meet with the student to determine the appropriate next steps regarding the student's participation in the production.