Music and Theater is a high school performing arts elective. It is not meant to be an introductory course in acting, but rather a music course which focuses on singing with storytelling and character-portrayal in mind. Neither is this a course specifically on vocal technique or music reading. In this program, all students will learn and perform solo and ensemble repertoire from the musical theater, opera, and ballad traditions. Throughout the year, the class will explore how to develop a character from text and music, how to interact with musical accompaniment, and how to overcome various physical tensions that interfere with vocal health and expression. Students will frequently perform and critique each other on monologues, solo pieces, and scenes in school events such as Black History Month celebration, Multicultural Night, and School Plays.