

GNSHS DRAMA &
SET DESIGN CLASSES

ACTING, THEATRE GAMES, & IMPROVISATION
Students will learn acting technique, self-confidence, and self presentation skills through the use of drama activities including text based scene study, theater games, and improvisation. These exercises will allow one to develop their public speaking skills, stage presence, and imagination. Furthermore, the class will help with social skills as there is collaborative group work on a consistent basis.
This is a fun, energetic, “up out of your seat” kind of class. *Students may take this course a second time only with teacher’s approval.
ACTING CLASS
The acting class introduces students to the fundamentals of performance through scene work, improvisation, character development, voice, movement, and script analysis. Students build confidence, creativity, and communication skills while exploring a variety of acting techniques and theatrical styles. Through individual and group performances, rehearsals, and constructive feedback, students develop their stage presence and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling.
THEATRE PRODUCTION (CHILDREN'S THEATRE)
In this course, students will put on a full theatrical production from beginning to end, which will be presented to district elementary schools. Students will have an opportunity to act in, direct, design and produce a play during the school day This class is perfect for students with an interest in any aspect of theatre, and welcomes both beginners and advanced students of all grades.
DIRECTING CLASS
The directing class introduces students to the creative and leadership skills needed to bring a script to life on stage. Students learn how to analyze plays, develop a directorial vision, cast a show, block scenes, guide actors, and collaborate with designers while exploring storytelling techniques and theatrical styles. Through hands-on projects, rehearsals, and peer feedback, students gain experience in communication, problem-solving, and artistic decision-making as they direct scenes and various other projects.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Time to overcome your fear! This course is designed to assist you in developing and understanding the skills and principles associated with speaking effectively in public. Not just a course on giving a speech, this class will explore the many genres in which we speak for power: storytelling, academic settings, drama, interviews, toasts, debate, and formal speeches. Emphasis is placed on encouraging an awareness of the power of rhetoric, the creativity involved in preparing for and using speech, and the manner in which voice, body, and awareness of audience contribute to the success of speaking.
SET DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
This Set Design and Construction class will focus on the many aspects of designing and constructing sets and scenery for the various school productions. Students will be involved in stage model building, flat construction, and many other facets of the theater. The students will have opportunities during class to actually work on the live stage in all of its many areas. The student may repeat the class for additional credits upon instructor’s approval.
Please note that GNSHS offers a variety of music classes such as band, orchestra, chamber music, choir, guitar, electronic composition, music theory, etc.... Many of our Theatre South students take a mix of drama, stagecraft, and music classes throughout their years at Great Neck South HS. If you have any questions specific to the music program, please email the head of the Performing Arts department, Michael Schwartz at mschwartz@greatneck.k12.ny.us