Carolina Forest High School has approximately 278 students taking a theatre-related class this semester. Theatre is so essential to schools as it brings young minds a new sense of confidence. It allows students to branch out and meet new people they may have never thought to talk to.
“In my experience teaching theatre, students finish the class with more confidence and self-awareness than when they started. Of course, like any class, students will only learn and thrive if they are willing to put in the work. I have seen students begin Theatre 1 as shy, introverted, and anxious, but they end the semester with confidence they didn’t believe was possible,” said Jennifer Davis, a theatre teacher and director at CFHS.
At CFHS, you can be an active help to the department in many ways, whether you enjoy the technical side of a show or being on the stage in front of hundreds of people.
Theatre can be beneficial to every kind of student. No matter where your emotions stand with the arts, theatre can transform you into a bolder, more professional person.
“Taking a theatre class can help students with so many life skills. It can help with confidence, empathy and perspective, creativity and problem-solving, teamwork and collaboration, discipline and work ethic, emotional expression, and cultural awareness,” stated Matthew Ward, the competition director for CF.
Caroline Kay, a senior, added, “Theatre creates an outlet for kids of all ages and from all backgrounds to express themselves without the judgment of the outside world. Without the theatre program at CFHS, I don’t think I would’ve grown as much as I have and I don’t even know if I would still be performing. I hope that every kid who doesn’t feel like they have a purpose, gets to experience finding their passion and their purpose”.
There are many exciting things happening for CFHS’s Theatre Department this year, including the announcement of the spring musical, “Mamma Mia.” We will be having multiple performances and productions throughout the 24’-25’ school year. Make sure to come out and watch these amazing performers and their passions!
