Theater and Dance

The department sees drama as an integral part of the Exeter curriculum: as a set of distinct disciplines in the theater arts, and as a series of skills that help students in their lives at the Academy and in the future.

These two strands come together in our central mission of helping students to understand who they are, and how to effectively express themselves and their ideas within the community at large. Whether in a rehearsal room, film set, or dance studio, the development of each individual happens often in the context of group work, thereby allowing students to hone communication and interpersonal skills as well. We provide opportunities in class and in production for students to work creatively in collaboration.

Students enroll in courses that enable them to sample single-term offerings in areas of special interest: from behind-the-scenes work in filmmaking, directing or stagecraft, to work in the limelight as an actor, dancer, or public speaker. At the same time, students may select courses that build on each other in a spiral of increasing complexity. Fundamentals of Acting paves the way for Intermediate Acting and finally leads to work within the Senior Acting Ensemble dramatic production each spring. Students have ample opportunity both backstage and on stage to take their passions and talents as far as they choose to go.

The Dance Program welcomes all students who are interested in dance. It strives to offer students of all levels and interests the opportunity to study, choreograph, perform and explore various dance forms. Participation in and exposure to the arts is an integral part of education, expanding one’s horizons and encouraging tolerance and understanding.

Dance courses grant physical education credit. The dance studio is located in the Thompson Gymnasium. Performances are held on the mainstage in Fisher Theater.

Unless otherwise stipulated, all courses are open to students at all grade levels and require no previous experience.