Shaker Theatre Presents THE NINTH GRADE THEATRE EXPERIENCE

January, February, and March are showcase months for Shaker Theatre's integrative approach to writing and performance in the high school, what we like to call, our "Giving Voice" season.

Two programs, the Ninth Grade Theatre Experience and the playwriting festival, New Stages, have proven to be successful and enriching opportunities for the students and educators who have been a part of them. These programs utilize teachers within the school and artists within the greater community to foster a cooperative, creative environment in which students' ideas and writing are shaped into performed and published works.

"Giving Voice," a presentation that celebrates these two programs and the processes which created them, has over the years, enjoyed success at three major education conferences and multiple productions at professional theatres including Dobama Theatre here in Cleveland and The Blank Theatre in Los Angeles.

For three weeks, the freshmen class collaborates to create a script. Rather than cast in prescribed roles, students create their roles from writing and theatre workshops.

CAST & CREATIVE

Directed by Department Chair Scott J. Sumerak, the production features 35+ students in a variety of roles: performers, writers, managers/producers, workshop assistants, and designers.

Additional members of the adult team include Christine McBurney (Co-Producer), Chuck Tisdale (Scenic &Lighting Designer), Barrie Sandman (Box Office Manager).

• Performances of Lights, Camera, Freshmen are Friday, February 10th, and Saturday, February 11th at 7 p.m.
• Shaker Heights High School Large Auditorium (15911 Aldersyde Drive).
• Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for students and senior adults, and may be purchased by visiting www.shaker.tix.com beginning about a week before opening and in-person at the box office one hour before each performance. For group rates please call the box office at 216.295.4287.
• Patrons at the associate level should call the box office to reserve their complimentary tickets at 216.295.4287. To play a role by becoming a Shaker Theatre Arts patron, please contact Department Chair Scott J. Sumerak at sumerak_s@shaker.org.

Shaker Theatre includes 8 daily classes and a production season including multiple main stage performances and four "showcase" performances/events.

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