Theatre and Speech
By teaching students how to express themselves more fully, the Theatre and Speech Department guides students in the continuous exploration of human understanding. Theatre and speech are seen as vital skills for students of any age.
The faculty begins to build an awareness of theatre arts and communication skills in the Lower School, with formal and informal performance and public speaking situations for all ages. Drama begins in third grade and continues through fifth grade.
The Middle School builds upon Lower School experiences by offering continued exploration as well as specific theatrical training. Drama is a required sixth grade course, and one year of Technical Theatre or Acting class is required in seventh or eighth grade. Advanced classes are available for interested eighth graders.
In the Upper School, students may continue with a broad exploration of theatre, or they may begin to specialize in an area of interest, such as public speaking, technical theatre, acting or directing. Students may also arrange an independent study project with a Theatre faculty member.
Performance Opportunities
Technical Theatre – In grades 7-12, students have the opportunity to learn the behind-the-scenes aspects of producing live theatre while working on the annual Middle School Play, Upper School Fall Play and Spring Musical, and special programs and assemblies.
Acting – Students may perform in the annual Middle School Play, Upper School Fall Play and Spring Musical, studio theatre productions, class plays or readings, and the Sixth Grade Memorial Day program.
Speech and Debate Team – Students develop self-confidence and the skills of self-expression through oratorical events. Members volunteer their public speaking skills on campus as announcers, speakers and emcees. Park Tudor is a member of the National Forensic League and the Indiana High School Forensic Association.