You might be asking yourself, “What is StagE3?” Well, StagE3 is the name of the Middle School theater troupe. Together, with advisors, students work in creating terrific theater. Performers are not only asked to collaborate but learn many important theatrical techniques, such as improvisation, setting and character, and impersonation with an emphasis of coming together as a theater troupe.
All this…before ever seeing a script. Instead of a large-scale production involving elaborate costumes and sets, the final performance follows more of a minimal approach. The set design is simple, props are only used when necessary and the focus is on the acting. Usually, the script is chosen with a social awareness theme, typically set in a middle school, that explores some common middle school themes, such as diversity, friendship, home life and more. Throughout the performance there may even be some original student or teacher written vignettes included.
In May 2017, North Shore Middle School students presented Box, a vignette play written by play write Lindsay Price that examines the internal and external conflicts adolescents experience as they strive to establish their identity. Additionally, the play addresses issues including the ramifications of spreading rumors, outgrowing old friendships, and having to put on a facade in the world when things are unstable at home. Created for a middle school, “Box” carries messages for anyone who knows or loves a child going through this very challenging time of life. Congratulations to all of the students and faculty who helped make these performances a success!