Ok, so the only reason I joined theater class was because I needed an easy A. A
blow-off class of some sort, to balance out the rest of my schedule. I got much
more than that. I am taking with me a sense of self-worth, and confidence. I
acquired the ability to think on my feet, and the motivation to get up and do
something when faced with a new situation, not just giggle and turn red. The
biggest thing, I think, is the ability to just talk to people and not be worried
about what they think. After all, I can’t be embarrassed after I think about
some of the stuff that I did this year in front of the class. I found that I can
go ahead and talk to someone I don’t know, instead of just standing there,
awkwardly. After spending five weeks on improvisation during the first semester,
I can think on my feet. It also gives me something to do when the telemarketers
call. I can think of something to say when I’m talking to one of dad’s
clients. And of course, if someone gets into a situation that they can’t quite
explain, I can whip up a story in no time flat, (not that I would ever get into
trouble or anything). After taking the class, I never have my back to someone
when I’m talking. I can project, (sort of). I know what Snagglepus is talking
about when he says “Exit, stage right!” Stage fright is no longer a big
thing for me. I can play a crazy role very well. I can talk in British and
Russian accents, (…”Daahlink, ve must get moose and skverrl!”). I can pick
out bad actors/actresses in movies and shows. I have a deep respect for the
theater arts. I am not much of an actress, but I love being backstage, all
stressed out, trying to iron out all the last minute wrinkles before the show.
Being in theater class introduced me to Theatre Club, which gave me a chance to
be a part of this year’s production. I was glad to do everything from pinning
up costumes, to reprogramming the light board for the fifty-eighth time, to just
being the gopher, or listening to a nervous actress go over her dramatic solo
one last time. It’s just knowing that I am part of the whole thing, working
with so many people for so long, then watching it all come together. Backstage
craft wasn’t a big part of the class, but the
relationship/every-one-is-a-link-universal-truth part of it was an undertone
lesson throughout the whole class. When we had to work with people that we had
known all our lives, but had never talked to before, and create something; that
was cool. Through theater class, I got introduced to the lighting and sound
room, which I love. I guess it’s a power trip, or something, but I just feel
good knowing that I am the first female student to ever run the school’s light
board. I like being in charge, and being able to lock the door, and not let
anyone in. Next year, I will have to train a sophomore to take over my job,
before I graduate, which seems pretty scary, and puts my remaining high school
timeframe in perspective. I have tried to outline some of random thoughts about
the past year’s third hour class. It wasn’t the blow-off class I was
expecting, and it helped me get through a few of my other classes. In college, I
may pursue the backstage positions, but honestly, I don’t think that theater
will be a major part in my life as I go riding off into the sunset, but I’ve
enjoyed it all the same.