Creative Drama F (OPEN ENROLLMENT)

This course is an introduction to the study and practice of Drama and is intended to build the confidence and composure needed for a live stage performance. No previous acting experience is required. In this class, students will learn proper vocal technique for live stage performance, the terminology of theatre, the process of preparing for a performance, and how to write a play performance critique. Performances will include both individual and duo or group assignments. All performances for this class take place in the classroom, not for the general public.

Creative Drama S (OPEN ENROLLMENT)

This course is a continuation of Creative Drama F, and the skills learned in the previous course are fundamental to success in the spring semester. All Creative Drama (S) students will perform in the Spring Theatre Arts Showcase for the general public. Students will engage in the entire theatre performance process, from auditions to script analysis, rehearsal, performance and reflection. In addition to preparations for the Spring Showcase, students will also study the history of Broadway and American Musical Theatre as well as audition techniques that will prepare them to audition for Intermediate and Advanced Drama, the fall play, the musical as well as community theatre or college admission.

Intermediate Drama A/B (Audition/Teacher Approval Required)

This course will explore various acting techniques for both stage and screen. Students will learn to analyze a script and develop a character through research, observation, imagination and improvisation. Students will engage in many exercises that will develop the skills needed to create a believable character, and they will apply this to several performance projects including monologues and duo or group scenes. Students will also learn to write a meaningful play performance critique, as well as audition techniques applicable to on campus productions, community theatre and college admissions.

Intermediate Drama students are also eligible to participate in theatre festivals where students perform for adjudicators and compete with students from all over the Southern California region.

This course also focuses on Children's Theatre through our annual production for local elementary schools. Intermediate Drama students develop a Children's Theatre production including writing the script, staging/choreography, costumes, props, etc. and travel the production to local schools for a special in-school assembly.

Intermediate Drama students all perform in the Spring Theatre Arts Showcase.

Advanced Technical Theatre (Interview/Work Sample Required)

For admittance into Advanced Tech Theatre, you must either submit a work sample OR complete the CTE Tech Theatre Summer Intensive. See Mr. Chittenden for details.

Advanced Technical Theatre students serve as designers and leaders of the production teams for the three major stage productions (fall play, musical, spring showcase). Students choose an area of specialty (lighting, sound, costumes, etc.) and create the designs for the production. Students will develop their skills through the execution of the full design process, from script analysis, to research, sketches, design pitches, budgeting, and drafting/building/programming to bring their designs to completion for a stage production. A high level of commitment and self-direction is required to ensure the success of the production. Time commitment outside of the class meeting time varies based on the demands of the student's chosen specialty. Those specialties requiring a significant number of hours in rehearsal and performance will earn the student additional credit in the Play Production course.

Beginning Technical Theatre F/S (OPEN ENROLLMENT)

The Beginning Tech Theatre course is designed to teach students the skills and terminology of the various technical fields of live event and theatre production. Over the course of two semesters, the class will address the following fields:  

Set Design & Construction

Scenic Painting

Stage Management

Lighting Design, Programming & Operation

Costume Design & Construction

Sound Design & Operation

Publicity & House Management

Prop Design and Construction

Some of these fields will be addressed as units of study including hands-on training, written assessments and authentic, project-based assessments. Other fields will be addressed through observation of experienced Irvine High students as well as industry professionals.

Approximately 12 hours of extra-curricular time will be required each semester for observation and work experience.