• Program Structure

    Theatre I

    Students are introduced to a wide range of theatrical experiences, including improvisation, ensemble performance, pantomime, puppetry, solo acting, and basic design for sets, costumes, props, lighting, and sound. Students will also explore playwriting and storytelling, learning how to use their voices, bodies, and imaginations to create characters and tell stories. A spirit of discovery, creativity, and collaboration is fostered in all aspects of the course.

    Theatre II

    Students build on the foundations of Theatre I by deepening their understanding of performance, design, and ensemble collaboration. Emphasis is placed on working as a group, giving and receiving feedback, and applying theatrical skills to larger projects. Students will work in pairs, small groups, and as a full class to create productions throughout the year. Units of study may include storytelling, playwriting, design projects, radio drama, and adapting literature for the stage.

    Prerequisite: Theatre I

    Theatre III

    This advanced course focuses on expanding performance and design skills while encouraging more self-directed learning. Students take on leadership opportunities by serving as directors, designers, playwrights, or stage managers for class projects. Collaborative work remains central, with an emphasis on refining feedback skills, text analysis, and performance interpretation. Units of study may include improvisation, sketch comedy, filmmaking, playwriting, and stage combat.

    Prerequisite: Theatre II

    Theatre Production

    Theatre Production is a performance-based course dedicated to producing large-scale works for both public and competitive settings. In the fall semester, students focus on the UIL One-Act Play, gaining hands-on experience in acting, design, and technical theatre under the structure of a competition. In the spring semester, students stage a Shakespeare play, exploring classical text, character development, and ensemble work. Throughout the year, students learn advanced theatre skills, leadership, and collaboration, while taking on the responsibility of performing for the school and community.

    Enrollment in Theatre Production is by audition or teacher approval.

     

    Marvelous Miller Theatre Philosophy

    At Miller Middle School, we believe theatre is for everyone. You don’t need to arrive with a résumé of roles or a “natural talent”—you only need curiosity, respect, and the courage to try. In our theatre program, students discover that growth comes from risk-taking, persistence, and learning alongside others.

    Marvelous Miller Theatre is a space where both beginners and seasoned performers can find their place. Our focus is on creating an environment that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and responsibility. Here, students not only develop acting, design, and production skills but also strengthen life skills that will serve them far beyond the stage: leadership, communication, empathy, and problem-solving.

    Theatre at Miller is about more than performances—it’s about building confidence, practicing resilience, and finding your unique voice. Through storytelling, teamwork, and self-expression, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. The bonds formed in this program often extend well beyond middle school, as students carry the lessons and friendships of Marvelous Miller Theatre into every part of their lives.