High School in the Spotlight: Brighton Central School District , NY

BroadwayWorld's High School Center is proud to showcase high school performance programs around the country in our weekly feature of 'High School in the Spotlight'.

Today, BWW's Student Center is thrilled to feature the performing arts department of Brighton Central School District in Rochester, NY!

The Brighton Visual and Performing Arts Department encompasses the music, art and theater programs for the district.

Students are engaged in a balanced program at all levels of study, integrating performance, analysis, movement, observation, problem-solving, development of critical thinking skills, and creativity to support the development of a commitment to life-long learning. Multiple opportunities and levels of participation are available to our students in this diverse and inclusive program. From entry level experiences at our elementary schools in general music and visual art to specialized courses in music, art, and theater at our high school--there is something for everyone!

The theater program at Brighton has experienced much growth over the past five years. At the high school level we offer course work in both acting and directing as electives. Students explore what is Truth in Acting and the Community of Theater. The curricular program is closely integrated with ELA standards and sequentially builds on aspects of the use of movement, voice, and choice to inform students' performances.

At the high school level there are a vast number of performances that take place each year for students to participate in. Last year students in Brighton produced The Crucible, Disney's Alice in Wonderland, Jr., Hairspray, and the 25th Annual County Spelling Bee. The High School Theatre department will next produce URINETOWN on April 19 and 20, 2013.

A unique opportunity for High School students to experiment with their creative talents is The 24-Hour Plays. In a little over 24 hours, the students write, audition for, direct and perform their own theatre one acts.

NYSTEA, The New York State Theatre Education Association, is an organization whose members are educators and artists. The Annual High School Theatre Conference, which is sponsored by NYSTEA every January, is well attended by Brighton High School students.

Brighton also offers a summer arts program for students in grades 4-12 with opportunities to take part in creative workshops and productions. For more information on 'Brighton Summer Arts', click here.

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