Performing Arts
The award-winning performing arts program is committed to developing a rich performance program in Early Childhood through grade 12. Classes in acting, musical theater, dance, speaking dynamics, playwriting, theater history, and criticism are available to students throughout the curriculum. The performing arts program encourages each child to develop his or her own abilities in classroom opportunities and individual lessons in both voice and varied instruments.
Lower and Elementary School students are exposed to the performing arts through a fine arts curriculum that includes singing, interactive dramatic play, Orff instruments, music history and composition, vocal and instrumental music instruction, as well as field trips, visiting performances, and recitals. Students in grades 3-5 participate in grade-level plays held in our Keeler Theater. With a no-cut policy, everyone gets a part!
In the Middle School, students begin formal music instruction through our choral and band programs. Students are also exposed to acting and dance classes as part of the elective course opportunities available in the Middle School, the highlight of which is participating in the 8th-grade musical.
The Upper School performing arts program allows students the opportunity to participate in competitive programs such as Overtures, Ovations, Cappies, and Shakespeare recitation. Theater students have three formal performance opportunities, while music and vocal students have seasonal and event-specific performances. All Upper School students are provided with avenues for viewing local theater and music performances, as well as enjoying on-campus arts assemblies and productions.
After the school year, there is a performing arts camp offered during the summer known as Centerstage available to students in Elementary through Upper School.
CCDS Upper School students have been recognized locally by the Cappie Awards in the following categories from 2003-2007:
- Best Musical
- Best Actress in a Play
- Best Comic Actor in a Play
- Best Actor in a Musical
- Best Actress in a Musical
- Best Featured Actor in a Musical
- Best Male Critic
