Senath Board of Education approves formation of drama club

The Senath-Hornersville School Board consider the formation of a Drama Club, which would be available to High School students. The board approved the creation of the club that will begin activities during the current school year. From left, Dana Autry, Gary Newman, Jr., Carl Johnson, President Terry Scott, Byron Small, Robbie Shrum, and Wayland Tom. Staff photo by Joshua Payne

During the recent school board meeting, High School Principal, Kim Campbell, informed the board of the request to begin the club and noted that the High School previously had a Drama Club. He added that the new drama club would be participating in various events throughout the school year.

"This will help the students improve social skills and I think its great," Campbell said. "It will involve, not only the students, but the staff, community, and parents."

Kelly Speakes, who will sponsor the club, explained to the board that the club will work to be self sufficient with fundraising events.

"We are looking to have a GONG Show with free admission, but donations accepted," Speakes said. "We are also looking at possibly hosting a T-shirt sale with the Drama Club logo on the front and back of the shirt."

He added that these fundraisers will hopefully allow the club the funds to buy supplies; such as plays and scripts.

Senath-Hornersville School Board President, Terry Scott, said, "This will be a good option for some of the kids, who may not be interested in athletics."

Speakes also informed the board that the club would adhere to all rules in place for other active clubs in the High School.

The GONG Show will feature production areas in the form of dramatic reading, singing, dancing, instrumental performance, stand-up comedy, impromptu performance, and pantomime.

Judging this show will be a group of individuals consisting of the local community, retired school faculty, and interested parents. Any act, able to complete a performance without being GONGED!, will be judged on a ten point scale. The act with the highest score will be awarded a trophy and modest cash prize.

Patrons contributing substantial donations will be presented a "Patrons of the Arts" certificate at the end of the school year by Officers of the Senath-Hornersville High School Drama Club.

During the Christmas Assembly, Drama Club will present skits including variations on "A Christmas Carol," and a parody of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." These skits will include impersonations of notable school personalities.

Drama Club members will be required to participate in the production of one theatrical event per year. Members not interested in performing on stage will have the option to participate in the high school musical aiding the act with set design and creation, costuming, lighting, sound management, stage management, prop management, and make-up arts.

Workshops will be hosted throughout the school year helping students develop in the areas of stage presence, character development, vocal projection, stage lighting, sound management, make-up arts, dramatic effect, believable death scenes, dramatic reading, script writing, stage blocking, and teamwork.

Also during the school board meeting:

* The board approved taking bids on a new or used school bus;

* The board approved the replacement of the intercom systems at the Elementary and High School for approximately $9,000, and;

* Devon Wheeler and Jennifer Nunnery were approved as substitutes for the 2009 school year.

The next Senath-Hornersville School Board meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m., on October 15.