The theater offerings at Marist School are tailored according to one simple, basic philosophy: to give the opportunity to create theater to as many students as possible. We rarely - if ever - cut students from our audition process, regardless of skill level or experience. We depend heavily upon an army of parent volunteers to help create the physical worlds of our show, as well as assist with house management and company celebrations. It is a fantastic community.
Fall Production #1 and #2
Marist School typically produces two pieces of theater prior to Thanksgiving break. The first (Fall Production #1) is a full-length play or musical. Past First Fall Productions have included Little Shop of Horrors, Into the Woods, Shakespeare in Hollywood, and Peter and the Starcatcher.
The second timeslot (Fall Production #2) is reserved for experimental work, and typically follows a one-act format. Past Second Fall Productions have included In a Grove: Four Japanese Ghost Stories, Shuddersome: Tales of Poe, and In Pursuit of Magic (an original piece created in collaboration with Serenbe Playhouse).
Both fall productions are open to any 9th - 12th grade students. Auditions take place in the spring of the previous school year, and rehearsals begin in mid-August. Audition materials are provided in advance of the audition.
Spring Musical
Each year, Marist School produces a Spring Musical for 9th - 12th grade students. It is always a Broadway show, and is fully produced with a full orchestra, unique choreography, and extensive costuming, scenic, and technical designs. Auditions are held in the fall, rehearsals begin in January, and the show is performed in late March. The Spring Musical represents the highest standard of theatrical performance at Marist School, and is a beloved tradition in our community.
Past Spring Musicals include Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Titanic, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Urinetown: the Musical, Shrek, The Addams Family, and Freaky Friday (as part of the Disney Theatrical Licensing Pilot Program).
Foundations Musical
Every spring, Marist School produces a musical exclusively for our 7th and 8th grade students (Foundations). In most cases, the Foundations Musical has been selected from a catalog of Broadway shows that have been specially adapted for younger performers. All Foundations Musicals are fully produced with unique sets, costumes, and technical production. Students who wish to perform in this production are asked to prepare a short vocal selection from the show, and might be asked to read from the script. All materials are provided in advance. Auditions are in February, rehearsals begin in late March, and performances are in mid-May.
Past Foundations Musicals have included School House Rock LIVE!, Seussical, the Musical!, and an original musical adaptation of Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Speckled Band (a collaboration with Serenbe Playhouse).
Technical Theater
Marist School employs a full-time technical director, who oversees all elements of production: sound and lighting design, scenic design and construction, and stage management. All our shows are run by a team of students who manage all things backstage: properties, scenic changes, wigs and makeup, light and sound board operation, and special effects. Crew members are a vital part of our process, and typically join our production two weeks prior to opening night. We regularly partner with Marist’s Robotics Team to create unique items for use in our shows.