Performing Arts

Dance

Dance is a relatively new art form being taught at Scattergood. While a few students in dance class every year have had more advanced training in dance, many students are new to the subject. The intro dance class is taught with all levels of students in one class and focuses on the basics of ballet, modern, jazz and hip hop. In the intro class, more advanced students are given harder steps and work on perfecting their technique, while newer students learn basic steps, positions and posture. Scattergood also teaches an improv dance class for those looking to expand upon their natural tendencies in movement. This class focuses on getting comfortable with solo as well as contact improvisation.

In addition, choreography has been taught to more advanced students so they can gain a deeper understanding of the art form and advance their skill level. Student choreographers are expected to create pieces for the annual dance concert that occurs at the end of the second semester. Other Scattergood students audition for parts in each piece in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. While some students do have advanced training in classical ballet, the dance forms of choice at Scattergood seem to be modern, jazz and hip hop and the choreographed pieces usually reflect those interests.

Drama

In Drama, we learn basic techniques to break the ice through diverse exercises such as vocal warm-ups, getting in touch with our spiritual animal, how to overcome fears and shyness, character personification, dance improvisations, and poetry readings.

During our warm-up sessions, we do a variety of exercises in different areas such as improvisation, team work, creative imagination, stage fights, mood intensity and mental asylum (where everybody goes crazy), etc. The students learn how to direct a drama class themselves, creating their own warm-ups and activities to share with the class. We watch excellent plays and movies such as Shakespeare's "Much Ado about Nothing" and "West Side Story", among others.

In the technical aspect of the play, we work hard in hanging all the lights, wiring all the connections to the board and helping with the stage decorations. Usually one or two students act as audio, light, and stage managers. They are also responsible to help as a script supervisor, making sure that the crew delivers the right lines.

We have a drama performance each semester (one during the second block and the other during the eighth block.) Past performances have included Arsenic and Old Lace, The War of the Words, and Twentieth Century Lullaby.

Music Project

Music project allows students to expand on their abilities and interests in vocal and instrumental music.  Various music projects have been offered at Scattergood, including: chorus, small band, percussion, music appreciation and other small ensembles. 

Students review basic elements of music theory. Each student has specific goals, and all students work on their solo and group performance skills.

The repertoire is varied, limited only by student interest and range.