Phyliss Jaffe, Theatre Arts Chair/Director

Phyliss Jaffe,
Theatre Arts Chair, Director
FAQs

How many productions are there each year?

There are 2 main stage productions, one in the fall, and one in the spring.  In addition, there are student directed one-act plays during the spring. We also have a number of other activities which can more fully explored via our website. Those activities include coffee house night, trips to New York City and London, the Theatre Honor Society.

My child is interested in drama and another activity (e.g., sports, choir,band). Is it possible to do both, or will that cause scheduling conflicts?

Unlike many other schools, where students need to choose one or the other performance activity, Langley  High School Drama coexists cheerfully with the activities of the Show Choir, Vocal Jazz, Chorale and Madrigals groups. Our Drama Director, Ms. Jaffe  and our Choir Director, Mac Lambert, do all they can to coordinate their rehearsal and performance schedules so that a student interested in both can, indeed, get the best of both worlds!

Another thing to consider – many students, when they get to junior year, have the option of taking an additional elective class. A lot of our students who chose drama as an elective class in their earlier high school years join a vocal class when they reach junior year, or vice versa.

Booster Business (Saxon Stage On Cue)

What is the best way to start getting involved with the Saxon Stage On Cue?

Consider volunteering for something small. You might start with working concessions, flowers or tickets on show nights. This is a good way to get to know people and know the families of the students your child is hanging out with. It’s also a great way to stay connected with your child and their interests.

What if my son/daughter says they don't want me getting involved?

The short answer – don’t listen to them!

The longer one – even when our kids tell us not to be involved, generally they like to see their parents interested in their activities. Our theater group is like a family! Seniors treat the freshmen like they have been in the program for years!

 

Is there something I can do that lets me help without appearing too involved?

There are plenty of times and places that you can help without being “in the way” of your child. When there is a show running, you can be behind the concession stand, or sell flowers or tickets on show nights. Attend an SSOC meeting (which only adults attend!) and ask about behind-the-scenes fund-raising, publicity, website and other projects.

Do rehearsals during really last until 10pm?

Sometimes do. But only during the last week before the curtain goes up.

Typically, older students are the ones involved in the main stage productions and they have learned to balance their schoolwork and performance responsibilities. If your student is in a lower grade, have him or her ask an older Drama student for advice!

While it is difficult to keep up with homework, many students do their work between sets or when they are not on stage. Think of it as the ultimate multi-tasking, and good training for the hectic life your child will have in college.

One tip for parents – the rehearsal schedule in the weeks leading up to a show is generally planned and posted ahead of time, so you can encourage your child to do as much work as possible ahead of time.

My child was a member of the Junior Thespian Chapter of the International Thespian Society in middle school.  He was told that 5 of his points would count toward the high school International Thespian Society.  How do they apply?

 

We take applications approximately one week after each production. Points are awarded based on quality and quantity of work. In addition, any student who was a junior thespian is awarded an automatic 5 points. Students can earn up to 5 points for outside LHS theatre work going back to the summer between 8th and 9th grade. It takes 10 points to become a member of the Theatre Honor Society.

 

 

My child is not taking a Theatre elective but would love to go on one of the trips (New York or London).  Can she do this?  Do the elective students or upperclassmen have first priority?

 

The theatre trips are only open to students enrolled in Theatre Arts classes. In most cases students are enrolled on a first come first serve basis as well as their behavior in class.  Only students who have taken four years of theatre arts courses are allowed to sign up in advance.  

 

 

I love the Saxon Stage.  How can I write out a check that will specifically support the Saxon Stage's needs? 

 

We are thrilled to have, and appreciate your support!  You can find the form for donations on our Saxon Stage On Cue page. Please fill out form and send that in with your check.  The address is on the form. Thanks again for your support.

Other questions about Saxon Stage contact Ms. Phyliss Jaffe at pjaffe@fcps.edu or our SSOC President, Una Higgins at una@cox.net

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