Theatre Foundations I | 2019-20 time, usually involving snacks and the creation of
inside joker-y… “Where’s the RANCH, LANDON?!”
Teacher: Mrs. Snow
Classroom: Auditorium | (801) 578-8226 |
elizabeth.snow@slcschools.org
https://slcsetheater.weebly.com/
“Be you…even when you’re acting!”
Welcome to SLCSE’s High School Theater class! This
course is designed to give students a greater understanding
of the world of theater and the dramatic arts. We will
explore many aspects of theatre including voice, character
movement and development, improvisation, behind-the-
scenes, and more challenging scene work. This is a
performance class first and foremost, so we’ll get well
acquainted with the stage and subsequent expectations.
MY PHILOSOPHY
My old man used to say, “It’s fun to have fun, but you’ve
got to know how!” Fun is second nature to theatre (IMO),
but is only possible if you show up, act professionally—
both in theatrical sense and the human-being sense—and
demonstrate a genuine investment in all the things we get
at. I understand those more interested in technical theater
may not find acting “exciting”, and vice-versa. But JUST
DO IT  Do it several times, just to say you’ve done it and
you know what actors and techies go through. You may be
pleasantly surprised! Regardless, find enthusiasm for all of
the things!
COURSE MATERIALS
 An open mind and pen, pencil, or writing utensil
PROCEDURES AND FORMAT
Here’s the whole biz, folks. Class time will mostly be
dedicated to show-readiness! Whether that means
rehearsing, building and painting—we are committed to
performing! As well…
Be a young, professional actor: Students must be
prepared and seated before the bell to be counted on time. I
mean, come on, you’ve had AT LEAST two solid years
practice with this, right? You can do this. Also, don’t be a
jerk to others—even if that person got the part you wanted.
Move on buddy, and be civil why don’t cha?
After school rehearsal: SO shows, am I right? Being
an actor (even a student actor) requires hours outside
of school hours. But never you fret! It’s a good ol’
GRADING AND ASSESSMENT
But for reals, please come to rehearsals. Please.
PLEASE? PLEASE?! Okay? Solid. Oh and repeated
late notice/absences will impact your grade for the
class…so maybe don’t put both of us in that situation.
Just talk to me! 😊
Theatre mom says, “To be a great actor, you must
also be a great student!”
Though not being an “actual” mother person, I am
motherly in the sense that I won’t let you shirk your
responsibilities to your brain and future. Let’s be super
honest—being a professional actor is hard to break in
to, SO you need to have a good academic background
and multiple interests. Don’t be a fool—do well in
school…or something along those lines. If grades
becomes a constant problem, we’ll have a chat or two.
On that note…
Field trip policy: Only students in good academic
standing in all classes will be invited to attend field
trips. Students with lower grades will stay at school
and use the opportunity to make up work. Enough
said!
On cellphones/device usage: SLCSE’s expectations
for high school students and their devices is one based
on trust and belief in responsible, young adults. I
believe that you can discern between appropriate and
inappropriate times to have your phone. Me telling
you to Google something—yes. Goofing around on
your phone during rehearsals, even when you aren’t
on stage—that’s a BIG nope. Please do not distract the
learning of yourself or others, or my ability to fully
teach. Thaaaaaaaank. You.
HOMEWORK
1. Memorization of lines/script check: You
will be acting! So be prepared at all times.
Lines memorized in a timely fashion, script
in hand. Always.
2. Critic’s Choice: Twice this year, (Due by
the end of T2 and 4) review a production!.
This can be a recorded performance or a live
show, and needs to be approved with the
teacher. Details are on class website!
3. Qs for As: At least once per term, we’ll
have a guest speaker from the industry come
in to share what they know. Students will be
required to turn in 3, thoughtful questions
prior to their visit.
Two grades are given: Numerical and
Citizenship-based. Participation is 100
percent mandatory. If you choose not to
participate or perform you will receive a loss
of points. Citizenship is determined by
attendance, tardies and classroom behavior.
Grading scale is as follows:
Late work is only accepted
through prior
arrangement/communication
with me.
*Plagiarism is a silly thing to do. It’ll also
get you a zero. So if you are concerned about
this, ask first before turning in work.
“TO BE, OR NOT TO BE…”
Willing, Gracious, and Kind:
As my student, come to class expecting to
step out of your comfort zone—and just go
for it! Know that rejection, while not
always great to feel can be a great
learning opportunity. You may not get that
part you wanted. That is okay! Have fun
with the parts you get and keep trying.
Though theater can be competitive, I ask
that you treat others with thoughtfulness
and consideration. Theatre should always
be a safe and welcoming place. You will
be constructive with your criticisms,
congratulate others and celebrate
opportunities! Be part of a positive
learning environment in the classroom.
We are a community of artists that help
each other grow and develop.
For your first grade,
take the intro survey.
Due Aug. 22nd! Use
the QR code to the
left, or go to our
website!