High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Theatre

Theatre

MCPS Regional Theatre Programs provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to pursue postsecondary opportunities in the arts. Through rigorous coursework and authentic performance experiences, students are prepared to enter the arts workforce directly after high school or continue their studies through college and conservatory programs.

The program emphasizes artistic growth, technical proficiency, and professional readiness by integrating performance, design, production, and career‑focused learning within a comprehensive theatre arts pathway.

Core Experiences

Cohort experience in double period Theatre 1 as freshmen
Multiple class periods each year in arts content
Earn MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal
Access to IB Theatre (SL or HL levels) in IB schools
Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) in Business Marketing, Entrepreneurship or Backstge Management
Career experiences with MCPS partners

Program Goals

Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills in the Arts
Equip students with a strong academic foundation in the core concepts and practical techniques of theatre, while also becoming fluent in the technological tools used by modern theatre professionals.
Provide Hands-On, Authentic Experiences in the Arts
“Move beyond the classroom” by requiring students to apply their knowledge in an authentic context through a Capstone Project and cultivated experiences with industry professionals.
Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways in the Arts
Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in the arts by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and engagement with industry professionals.

Application & Locations

Application: Interest-based application

Schools:

Region 1: Northwood
Region 2: Blake
Region 3: Woodward
Region 4: Richard Montgomery
Region 5: Quince Orchard
Region 6: Seneca Valley

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Theatre Program. Cells in purple are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
Theatre 1 (Double Period)	Theatre 2	Theatre Elective Level 1 or IB Theatre (SL/HL)	Theatre Elective Level 1 or IB Theatre (HL)
Theatre 1 (Double Period)	Theatre Elective Level 1 or World Language or Level 1 Business/Management Course	Theatre Elective Level 2	Theatre Elective Level 3 or Dual Enrollment
English	English	English	English
Math	Math	Math	Math
Science	Science	Science	Elective (PE, Technology or Health)
Social Studies	Social Studies	Social Studies	Elective (PE, Technology or Health)
World Language	Elective (PE, Technology or Health)	Theatre Elective or World Language or Level 2 Business/Management Course	Theatre Elective or World Language or Level 3 Business/Management Course

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Theatre Program and earn the related certificate:

Theatre Core (3 credits)
- Theatre 1 (double period)
- Theatre 2
Theatre Focus (4 credits in any of the following areas)
- Advanced Acting
- Play Directing
- Stage Design
- Musical Theatre
- Stage Management
- IB Theatre (in schools that offer International Baccalaureate only)
Secondary Focus (three credits in one of the following areas
- Theatre (three additional theatre focus courses)
- Business (three credits in Fine Arts Business/Management)
- World Language (three credits or world language in grades 10-12 and the Seal of Biliteracy)