Performing Arts Back in Full Swing
After a challenging year of virtual concerts and empty auditoriums, the performing arts are getting back to in-person dance, music, and theatre productions this fall.
Dreams Come to Life on Ridgway Stage
Featuring a variety of dance styles and concepts based on dream-journal entries, the Upper School Dance Concert “DreamScape” was full of whimsy and intrigue. This year, five student choreographers presented their work alongside pieces choreographed by Upper School dance teacher Avery Lux, guest choreographer Joel Aguilera, and professional dancer and choreographer Tiffany Tabor Mackrill.
“There is a lot that goes into putting a production together,” Lux says. It takes a village to bring the various elements together (choreography, music editing, poster design, social media, photography, costumes, and technical design, etc.). This show is such a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their talents and shine on stage in front of a live audience again.”
Shakespeare in the Black Box
Advanced Theatre Arts students, with the help of Theatre Arts 2 students, worked hard this semester to direct, choreograph, design costumes, and assemble sets and lighting for the beloved Shakespeare comedy, Much Ado About Nothing. Ten students played 18 different roles in a highly entertaining November weekend of performances.
“In the Upper School Theatre Arts Department, we learn by doing,” says Theatre Arts Director Liesl Ehmke. “Students began the semester immersing themselves in one of William Shakespeare’s popular comedies, Much Ado About Nothing. They’ve embraced their characters wholeheartedly and worked together with the four Theatre Arts 2 students both on stage and behind the scenes to produce a successful and entertaining show. I am proud of all they have accomplished!”
Parents Join in on the Fun at the Fifth-Grade Band Concert
Last month, fifth graders put on a fun-filled performance for friends and family in the new Lower School Music Room. Students played a variety of folk favorites and classical pieces they’ve been learning with band teacher Johnathan Daniels.
During intermission, students had the opportunity to show off their musical talents and teach parents how to play “Hot Cross Buns.” Fifth graders guided parents through the fundamentals of their instrument: embouchure, instrument carriage, air support, rhythm, etc.
“Principia already has a loving and supportive culture and what better way to celebrate that than with musical performances that bring people together,” Daniels says.
Middle School Musicians Take to the Stage During Festival of Bands
Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders performed a lively mix of classical and jazz tunes for a live performance during the “Festival of Bands” concert this fall. The performance began with the hymn, “Beautiful Savior,” followed by an overture titled “Ceremomium” by Robert W. Smith, and a programmatic piece titled “Dragon Slayer” by Rob Grice. The Upper School Jazz Band also made an appearance.