Performing Arts

From classical to jazz, Broadway to improv, lighting to stage managing, opportunities abound at Principia—both on stage and backstage. All of these occasions cultivate poise and stage presence, as well as artistic expression, accuracy, and joy.

The music, theatre, and dance programs are housed in the newly renovated Performing Arts Center, and the theatre program also works out of the Black Box. A well-stocked costume room (one of the best in Missouri) as well as changing rooms and solo practice areas round out the facilities.

Learn more about the Upper School performing arts curriculum.

Music and Choir

Music education is integral to Principia’s entire program, starting in the earliest grades. In Lower School, children are introduced to elements of rhythm and tone through folk songs, games, dances, and Orff instruments (tonal devices such as xylophones, metallophones, and glockenspiels). By the end of Grade 3, they are learning how to play recorders and read notation, and in grade 4 they choose a band instrument to focus on for the next few years.

Participation in band is required during grades five and six and includes performing in two annual concerts. From grade 7 upward, band participation is optional—but many students choose to play in the Middle and Upper School concert bands, with some also devoting time to choir. In the Upper School, students can audition for the smaller Jazz Band, which involves additional practice time as well as the occasional opportunity to go on tour, performing for audiences around the country.

Our choral program also starts in the elementary grades, with a joint Lower and Middle School choir. In the Upper School, advanced vocalists can audition for Chamber Singers as well as select male and female ensembles, in addition to performing in the choir.

Dance

Through the Upper School dance program, first-time and advanced dancers alike learn to respect and work with their bodies and to understand that dance is the outcome of intelligent and purposeful physical actions taking form in thought first. As they improve their technical skills, students also expand creative and critical thinking skills by working with other dancers to choreograph pieces for performance. One major dance performance is held each semester.

Theatre

Through the sequence of Upper School theatre classes, students learn various aspects of theatre and performance. They delve into the art of storytelling through physical expression, voice, and movement, and study Greek theatre, Shakespeare, and improv. They prepare and perform monologues and duologues for community audiences and professionals and participate in the ESU National Shakespeare competition. In addition, students write, direct, and act in their own one-act plays.

Advanced students collaborate with Lower School students on a variety of theatre projects, which provides additional practice in writing and directing. Students also receive valuable audition tips, prepare acting résumés, choose audition pieces, and have an opportunity to perform in front of a professional theatre director who critiques their performances and offers constructive feedback.  

Backstage Opportunities

Interested students work closely with our Auditorium Manager to learn the nuts and bolts of set design, sound, and lighting. These students play a key role in every performance held in the 800-seat Ridgway Auditorium.