Why I Chose Theatre
During the middle of 4th grade, I moved to a new school. They really put an emphasis on art, performing, and creativity. Because of my love for art, I loved the concept of that school. Many of my friends were also in a school play, only for 4th and 5th graders (and a dance ensemble for 3rd grade and above). Many of my friends were part of the show, including acting, dancing, and show production. I was so inspired by their performance, especially the actors, that I decided to try out in 5th grade.
When I tried out in 5th grade, I did not make the cut. I was very disappointed, because I’d wanted to act for a long time but couldn’t do it. I got to participate in show production, which I was happy with and got some artistic achievements while participating. But I promised myself that I would one day be in a show. Fast forward to choosing electives in 6th grade, when I chose Theatre A. I would finally fulfill by elementary school dream.
Theatre A
Personally, Theatre A was the one class I learned the most from. It was definitely my most rigorous, too. We had to write 10 definitions of theatre words perfectly every week, take quizzes on those words, memorize a lot of information, history studies, and many other things than just acting. Apart from that, we learned other theatre techniques, like falling, slapping, and stage directions.
When we started the theatre show in January, we had 2 months to prepare a 90 minute show called Haphazardly Ever After; the story of a royal family with 4 lazy and up-stuck children, and their parents try to teach them or marry them off to bring peace in the family. When casting began, I did not think I would get a big part, but I tried for as many parts as possible. In the end, I got a part with about 300 lines; double of anyone else. I was stunned, but was very happy. It was very difficult to memorize everything, but I got it all. That play was very fun to do, and I’m glad it was my first one.
Despite it being my most difficult class, I decided to take Theatre B, the next step in middle school acting.
Theatre B
I definitely enjoyed Theatre B much more than A, mainly because we didn’t have vocabulary and quizzes. We have Shakespeare quotes instead, but we can be creative with our interpretations in our daily lives. Also, everyone was friends with each other, so it was easier to communicate with everyone, especially during production.
For our show, Next Victim, Please, I didn’t get the largest part, but I was fine with it because my character was funny and up-stuck. Our show was about an arrogant family where everyone hates each other, and they’re all fighting for money. It was so fun to do, and I’m so thankful for everyone and my amazing and dedicated teacher.
This year, we also visited Broadway Dallas (described in another post). I am so grateful for that opportunity, especially with my teacher who won’t be teaching theatre anymore. She has taught my school for 28 years and will be retiring. As everyone else, I am absolutely distraught.
Next Steps
As my teacher won’t be here next year, that is one of my reasons why I’m not taking theatre for that reason. My theatre journey was absolutely unforgettable, and I have definitely become a more confidence speaker, actor, and teammate. I also want to explore other performance activities, such as band. Though, I hope that 7th grade isn’t the end to my acting journey. I hope to try acting in high school, as well as community shows later.
Dedications
Thank you, Mrs. Reese, for being dedicated to teaching this fine art for many years. I have learned so much from you, and you are so inspiring to all of your students. I cannot describe how much I’ve gained confidence from your class, and many of my favorite memories were made in that very room. Even though you are leaving our school, you will never leave our hearts.