By Michael Hayes, Director of Fine and Performing Arts
The beginning of a new school year is always exciting at Cary Academy, and this year brings new initiatives that will surely lead to enhanced student growth and achievement in the arts.
First, we welcome Aaron Yontz who joined our team on September 1 as Technical Director for Berger Hall. Aaron comes to us from UNC-CH where he has for many years been Technical Services Manager at Carolina Performing Arts. Aaron brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in lighting, audio, multimedia, stagecraft and many other aspects of tech theater operations. We are excited to bring him up to speed. Please give him a warm welcome!
Trimester 1 classes are in full swing. The 6th graders are currently in their minors rotation; in November they’ll be asked to choose their top choices for their art classes the rest of the year. Our 7th and 8th graders will continue in their majors, with an interdisciplinary unit one day per week in T1 called “The Lion King Experience.” This curricular project coincides with our production of the Lion King Jr, planned for February 8, 9, and 10, and is open for students Grade 6-9.
Changes in the daily schedule have created new opportunities and choices in US arts classes. Art and Design, formerly a 2 year rotation, is now taken by 9th graders for 1 year. Students will rotate each trimester for 2-D, 3-D and Makerspace design projects. New multi trimester Visual Art offerings include Drawing and Painting, Mixed Media, 3D Art and Design, Fiber Art, Glass, Screen Printing, 3-D Modeling for Printing, Animation and Game Design, and Video Projects. We are excited to see what students can create in these new courses.
Ensembles in chorus, band, jazz band, orchestra, dance and theater are coming together and are enjoying having a double (90 min) block for rehearsal.
US students have auditioned for and are cast in an upcoming production of “Dracula”, planned for October 26, 28 and 28. Look for updates for tickets for both of our shows.
This year, the arts faculty will have three full day retreats as a part of our curriculum review cycle. We are excited about this opportunity to reflect upon and discover opportunities to enhance students’ creativity, skill, talent for the coming years.
