This year, the Sierra Canyon Theater program opened its 2023-2024 season with a William Shakespeare classic, Romeo and Juliet.
Held at El Portal's Marilyn Monroe Forum Theater for two weekends in mid-November, the play featured a cast of 25 actors, providing a new level of performance for many of our students encountering Shakespeare on the stage for the first time. "I think mounting and performing in a Shakespearian play is a terrific learning experience for everyone involved. It allows for a level of understanding and accessibility you cannot get from reading the text alone," shared Stage Manager Ms. Jennifer Lichtman.
Many of the Romeo and Juliet cast members are also enrolled in courses offered by the Performing Arts Department. These classes focus on fostering a nurturing and collaborative environment where students can cultivate their acting, dancing, and musical talents. Student actors hone their skills and develop a deep understanding of character development, stagecraft, and bringing scripts to life. In reflecting on his eight years at Sierra Canyon, Production Director Mr. Matt Armstrong passionately expressed, "I have enjoyed many things here, but none compared to the few months I spent rehearsing and putting on this show. This special group of kids made the Sierra Canyon Blackbox and El Portal Theater the place to be this fall. They were dedicated, daring, and hilarious. We are more than a week removed from closing, and I still miss it."
These Trailblazers strive for artistic and creative excellence—as individuals and as an ensemble—fostering a shared sense of unity that serves as the cornerstone for free-flowing creativity. Sierra Canyon's Director of Performing Arts, Mr. Mario Garcia, stated, "Theater is a collaborative process, and it is wonderful knowing that I can rely on so many talented people to help create an atmosphere for our students to perform and share their artistry with our community."
We look forward to the following two shows in the spring semester: Something Rotten and Matilda!
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