Theater students, educators, and professionals gather at STMA

For students, educators, and professionals with a passion for the theater arts, St. Michael Albertville High School was the place to be on Wednesday, August 21. The school hosted an event geared towards exposing and educating students in multiple facets of theater production.  

The theater festival was made possible by a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. Joshua Mann, theater director at STMA High School led and organized the production. Mr. Mann applied for the grant, and after it was awarded, began the many countless hours of putting it all together, ensuring every detail was accounted for and the day ran smoothly for everyone. “This festival is a great event to kick start our theater seasons and highlights great sportsmanship among schools who come together to learn about theater. The festival is about seeking opportunities, and we want to provide these for students.”  

Avery Russek, a student at Buffalo High School said, “He’ll never admit it, but he’s the reason this is happening.” Russek, a junior, was one of over 200 students who took part in the program. Theater students from fourteen area high schools participated in the day-long learning event. Students had the choice of numerous breakout sessions that covered all aspects of theater, acting, dancing, make-up, lighting, technology, writing, social media promotion, directing, and so much more. There was something for all aspiring theatrical tastes. 

Over 40 instructors from around the county taught each breakout session, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with students. Many of the instructors have either worked professionally in theater or taught classes dedicated to theater art and production.   

Students had the opportunity to choose from eight different sessions during each rotation, giving a plethora of options. A popular choice was a session titled, “Theater Games,” which helped students on a variety of levels. The session helped students develop skills in improvisational acting. “It’s a chance to be goofy, silly, and play games. It’s so much fun.” said Mira Weber, a senior at STMA who enjoys working behind the scenes of theater productions. “It’s really cool to be here because of the grant we got.”

Many colleges were in attendance, coming as far as Los Angeles and New York to offer information on opportunities to participate in theater at a collegiate level. Some schools offer majors in theater, but students don’t have to be a theater major to participate. Getting involved in theater teaches many skills that students carry with them for a lifetime. Theater gives students a chance to meet new people, network, and builds experience in teamwork and performance.

Area theater students have built a community of camaraderie and friendship. Russek, who also participates in Buffalo Community Theater stated, “We compete against each other in single act competitions, but we all cheer and root for each other. If we need a prop or something for a performance that we don’t have, other schools will lend it, and we help each other out.”

Russek stated that interest in theater has “grown so much since last year. Some performances will see nearly 100 people audition. We are always looking to recruit more people.” Russek referenced an upcoming production featuring five ensembles, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, which requires multiple on-stage performers. 

A typical theater schedule at the high school level lasts the entire school year, often with a fall musical, one-act competitions in the winter, and a two-to-three act performance in the spring. Mark your calendars and see a show. Support the hard work and amazing talents of these dedicated students and the mighty efforts they put into each performance.