St. Vrain Valley Schools’ Theater Day attracted more than 100 middle school students to participate in a variety of theatrical workshops led by the district’s high school teachers and students with topics including, lighting and sound, set design, technical theater, acting, audition preparation, hair and makeup, improv, dance, and more.

Janay Bird, Fine Arts Coordinator for St. Vrain Valley Schools, emphasized the overarching goal of introducing middle schoolers to the theater experiences that await them in ninth grade. “We believe this exposure is crucial in developing their appreciation and passion for the arts as they enter high school,” said Bird.

Students participated in hands-on activities such as designing costumes, building props, and experimenting with sound effects, offering them a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of theater production. These workshops aimed not only to equip the students with practical skills but also to foster creativity, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the art of theater.

In addition to the workshops, students enjoyed several short school performances by theater students from St. Vrain high schools at the end of day. The hands-on experience provided a unique and engaging opportunity for them to learn about the intricate work involved in producing a theater production. Hannah Miracle, an eighth-grader at Trail Ridge Middle School, shared her experience of the event, saying, “I really enjoyed learning about everything that happens behind the scenes. It’s been cool to see how the lights work, how everything comes together, and how they create different audio sounds. It’s been a fun experience.”