Performing Arts
For more than 20 years the Performing Arts program has been thriving in the middle school. Each grade level experiences a different aspect of the Performing Arts affording them the opportunity to develop their creative and communication skills; oral interpretation in fifth grade, creative movement and dance in sixth grade, advertising campaigns in seventh grade, and a reflective Chapel Talk delivered during a weekly chapel service in eighth grade. Classwork is designed to help students build their self-confidence, develop an appreciation for the Performing Arts, and refine their presentation skills.
Students are also able to participate in two school productions and a Performance Lab. Each year there is a fall production, which is usually a one-act play or series of short scenarios/skits woven together thematically. In the spring, students can showcase their singing and dancing skills in the annual spring musical. Performance Lab happens during the winter trimester. It offers students the opportunity to explore different theatrical emphasizes, such as stage combat, directing, musical theater, improv or costume & lighting design, without the pressure of mounting a production.
The Performing Arts program at GSL supports a chapter of the International Thespian Society. The ITS is an honor society that acknowledges and celebrates the hard work and achievements of students in middle and high school who have participated in theatrical endeavors at their educational institutions. Students who have participated in at least three middle school productions are invited to join the International Thespian Society Junior Thespian Troupe #88798 – Luker’s Troupers. Inductions are held each spring.
A Middle School Thespian Award is given each year at graduation to that member of the graduating class who has exhibited excellence in professionalism and character while participating in school productions.