THEATRE INSTITUTE
Director: Amy Morrison      Email: AMorrison2@schools.nyc.gov
(718) 658-5407 ext. 2801 or 2802
Guidance Counselor: Audra Perlman      Email: APerlman@schools.nyc.gov  (718) 658-5407 ext. 2011

Mission Statement


"We believe that doing is the best way to learn"

   The Hillcrest Theatre Institute is a four year program for high school students who wish to study the many aspects of the performing arts.  We believe that the classroom and our fully equipped stage is only one place to learn the art and craft of acting.  Students study acting, scenery design and construction, script writing, directing and choreography, vocal music and make-up/costume design.  Our students are encouraged to go to professional auditions, to seek out agent representation and to get involved with community theatre.  Students have the opportunity to see Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, work with and learn from professional actors and writers, and attend workshops in Manhattan and Queens. 

THEATRE CURRICULA    

Grade 9: Theatre Basics
Sampler of acting, reading, resume writing, improvisational skills, and the history of theatre.  The second half of the year includes: voice mechanism, pronunciation and diction, oral interpretation of prose and poetry

Grade 10: Script Analysis and Stage Skills
In depth study of the one act play and the full length play.  The second half of the year includes training in: stage areas, blocking scenes, movement, basic directing of a scene, introduction to scene analysis, understanding text to create character, basic clown skills. 

Grade 11: Ensemble Acting (Double Period Course)
Basic skills in two-character scene performance.  Students also study the monologue, improvisation, skills in directing, blocking, and memorization.  The second half of the year contains advanced scene study with production values added such as costuming, lighting, props, and costumes. 

Grade 12: Theatre Production (Double Period Course)
Group decision making in production and culmination of skill development in theatre. 
 

Existing Partnerships:
* Manhattan Theatre Club
* The English Speaking Union
* Hofstra University
* Creative Arts Team
* Broadway Cares
* UNICEF

Extra Curricular Activities
* The International Thespian Society