RCHS Theater performs Rumpelstiltskin for elementary students
Last month, the Theatre III class at Rock Canyon High School performed Rumpelstiltskin at DCS Montessori and Buffalo Ridge Elementary. Tech elements were kept simple yet effective, allowing the focus to remain on the students’ performances and the magic of live theater.
The Theatre III class at Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) offers students a dynamic and immersive experience. One of the annual traditions of the class, led by teacher Cindy Baker, is performing for children’s theater, a creative project that challenges students to act outside of their comfort zones and connect with audiences of all ages. This year’s class embarked on a special performance of Rumpelstiltskin at DCS Montessori on February 7 and Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) on February 12.
The production captivated an audience of more than 450 students ranging from kindergarten through third grade and showcased the high school students’ dedication and talent as they brought the timeless tale to life with energy and enthusiasm. Through non-auditioned class plays, students can explore a variety of characters and improve their performance skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.
“In this play, I got to interact with the audience, which is cool because I could see the reactions right away, unlike in other plays,” said Charlene Marasigan (15), a sophomore who played Apple Seller.
The Theater class meticulously prepared for their performances, refining their speech, gestures and interactions to resonate with younger children. Tech elements were kept simple yet effective, allowing the focus to remain on the students’ performances and the magic of live theater. The result was that the cast sharpened its acting skills and cultivated empathy, adaptability and an appreciation for storytelling.
“Theatre III has really enchanted my acting skills by helping me work on a variety of movements and voices and forcing me out of the typical characters and movements that I tend to use,” said Kate Benevento (16) sophomore at RCHS during her performance at BRE.
This partnership between RCHS and local elementary schools represents a tradition that is mutually beneficial for both actor and audience.
RCHS theatre III cast on behind the scenes before their performance at DCS Montessori on February 7th.
Article and photos by Dani Salas
