YCDS is deeply committed to providing opportunities for students to explore and develop their passions in the Arts. We take pride in offering a diverse range of coursework for middle and upper school students. Our program includes acting classes that explore topics ranging from scene study, improvisation, and stage makeup to technical theatre training that consists of set design, lighting, and costuming.
In addition, students who excel in elective opportunities and participate in two performances are eligible to apply to YCDS’s International Thespian Society troupe. The International Thespian Society is an international organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting excellence in high school theatre, providing students with unique opportunities for recognition, leadership, and artistic growth in the performing arts. Thespian Society students are invited to participate in a state theatre conference to further enrich their skill set through workshops, performances, and competitions
Our full-scale theatrical productions feature both classic and contemporary works, allowing students to experience the entire process—from auditions to performances. Students may audition to act onstage or participate in any crew position such as stage management, lights, sound, run crew, or costume crew. Each year, YCDS presents an Upper School Play, an Upper School Musical, and a Middle School Play or Musical. For some shows, the Upper School musical becomes a grade 6 through grade 12 production
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