San Mateo High School Drama Curriculum

 

San Mateo High School offers one of the most critically acclaimed drama programs in the Bay Area. Each year, students may participate in the cast and crew of three full-scale productions, performed in the San Mateo Performing Arts Center. In addition, drama teacher Brad Friedman offers four theatre courses, all of which fulfill the “F” fine arts requirement needed by all students who wish to attend a University of California or California State University campus. This year, all courses will be open to all students.

 

Drama 1 – 2: This acting course should appeal to beginners and advanced students alike. Activities include improvisational games, scene study, playwriting, and theatre history. Students in past classes have created their own soap operas, murder mysteries, Greek tragedies and commedias, among other projects. Students in drama exercise their imaginations, learn how to work collaboratively and gain confidence in their ability to speak in front of others.

 

“Even though I have been doing theatre since fourth grade, I have learned so many new things from this clas that will benefit me for the rest of my career.” Sarah H., 9th grade

 

Musical Theatre: This performance-based class focuses on the history and many forms of this most American of theatre styles. Students create productions of both original and standard musicals which are performed for an audience. They also learn the fundamentals of musical theatre audition and compile a portfolio of audition songs to be used for college, community and professional theatre. A significant number of students from this class are accepted each year into musical theatre programs in New York, California and throughout the U.S. The course may be repeated for credit, and seniors are given the opportunity to direct productions for the yearly final. 

“ I always show up to this class happy. It allows me to be free and loud and share my talent with others. If it wasn’t for this class, I wouldn’t have a lot of the confidence I have today.” Rachel K. 12th grade

 

Cinema and Society: The only course of its kind offered in the district, this class teaches students to look at film through a filmmaker’s eyes. Students study a wide variety of films, spanning genres, time periods and cultures, to discover how film reflects the ideas and concerns of the world around us. Through the study of screenwriting, students also have the opportunity to write and produce their own short films. Through the study of screenwriting, students also have the opportunity to write and produce their own short films, and each year these films are presented and judged in an annual school film festival.

 

“I feel like we all gained a greater grasp and understanding of film. Now when I go to a movie, I watch it not just for the sheer fun of it, but also in a deeper sense. I spot things like the style and the type of cuts, angles and lighting.” Tom D. 10th grade

 

Technical Theatre: This course explores the backstage world of the theatre. Students learn the elements of set, lighting and sound design as well as the technical history of different theatrical eras. Practical application is provided as students work on the crews of the SMHS plays.The course may be repeated for credit, and advanced students have the opportunity to design mainstage productions and take on leadership roles in backstage management.

 

“It’s really satisfying to watch a design you made get brought to life or a flat you painted appear on stage. I’ve gained a whole new appreciation for what goes on backstage.” Mary H. 11th grade

 

Sign up for a drama class with your counselor. If you have any questions, call Brad Friedman at (650) 558-2348.

 

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