Training thespians
Three Oaks students are looking forward to getting into the school’s new black box theatre that’s part of the ongoing renovations.
Georgia Gunn is excited to take the stage.
For the past few years, the Three Oaks student has taken drama classes in the classroom and in the community.
But for her Grade 12 year, the two might come together in the school’s new black box theatre.
“It’s a venue for performances in drama, music, art battles, anything really. But it’s also a set space where students in the performing arts can come into a focused space.”
Gunn is considering studying drama and performing arts in post secondary.
“I love getting to be someone else. It’s a big confidence builder to discover who you are as someone else and those feelings that come with being someone else.
“Having the opportunity to study drama within the community, but now get to study it in my formal education with a facility like this theatre, is a big opportunity for anyone. It will provide great experience for the future.”
Currently, drama students perform on the old stage in the school’s cafeteria.
“It’s really great to be able to perform or have a rehearsal space that’s not the cafeteria where people are coming and going. I think it will be a lot less hectic and nerve racking.”
Jeff Clow, the principal of Three Oaks Senior High, is excited about the opening of the theatre.
“The concept of a black box theatre is anything is possible in a very intimate setting. It can be any season, any set, any performance concept, that is all possible. It lends itself to the lighting.”
The new theatre will seat 109. Clow said staff knew the space where the theatre has been built was available and knew they wanted to grow the performing arts fields while tying it into other courses and opportunities.
“This won’t just be for the drama classes. It can incorporate project-based learning, the culinary students, musical performances, lunchtime coffee houses for students, art shows and events for the community, like art after dark.”
The theatre will also provide opportunities for students who want to learn behind-thescenes skills in the theatre, like sound and lighting. “There’s going to be sound systems and a booth as well as high quality lighting, so for those who are more interested in the producing side or directing side of theatre, they can learn those tools as well.” The black box theatre will open in October.
“Something like this can rejuvenate a facility. It will be a great space for the students and for Summerside.”