Drama


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Advanced Drama students perform "Hamlet: Blood in the Brain"

The Drama department at Oakland Tech is alive with classes, performances, field trips and news!

Classes:

Ninth Grade English/Drama, Beginning Drama, Advanced Drama, and an after-school Production Drama class are all offered for school credit.

Performances:

Each of the drama classes presents at least one production during the school year.  Class productions may include student work as well as professionally written plays.

Tech students benefit from the Drama Department’s collaborations with top Bay Area theater professionals such as the California Shakespeare Theater, one of American’s leading Shakespeare repertory companies.

Details on the classes’ performances can be found on each class’s web page.

Field trips:

At Tech, introducing students to a wide variety of theater experiences is an integral part of the drama program.  Tech’s drama students take too many field trips each year to list here,  going to performances at major and smaller theaters in San Francisco, Berkeley and Oakland.  In recent years, students saw blockbusters like “In the Heights,” cutting-edge new drama like Naomi Iizuka’s “Polaroid Stories,” and performances by the California Shakespeare Theater as well as small, intimate performances.  They participated in talk-backs with actors and directors, where they were more than once acknowledged from the stage.  Students who had never even been to a professional theater performance before got to have dinner and a night at the theater and then meet playwrights, actors and directors after the performance.

And last but not least, Tech’s drama students have performed on the international stage!  Winners of the American High School Theater Festival competition, the OakTechRep performed in August 2010 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest theater festival.

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Drama Posts

OakTechRep Awards Ceremony June 8

What’s more fun than the Oscars? I don’t know … but we’re going to have our very own OakTechRep awards ceremony on June 8, 2012 in the Auditorium, from 4-6 p.m.

Red carpet attire not required for this fun, informal event for the students and families involved in the after-school drama class, the drama production, and the fabulous Tech Techies. Come and let’s recognize our achievements and say a fond farewell to our departing seniors!

 

 

Help Feed the “Dream”

It’s that time again … long rehearsals for what promises to be a fabulous drama production, and that means that our actors and techies need your help to bring them nutritious after-school snacks and dinner while they’re working hard to prepare the show!

We need YOU to join our group of wonderful parent volunteers in bringing food for the students.  This year, we are working through the website LotsaHelpingHands.com to coordinate our efforts.

It’s easy to help:

  • Go to https://www.lotsahelpinghands.com/c/655271/
  • Fill out the right-hand side of the form, which is a Request to Join the Community.
  • You will be added to the OakTechRep “community” and sent instructions for setting a password and signing-in.
  • You’ll then be able to choose a date and a task (bringing snack, bringing dinner).

Please do this as soon as you can.  We have many tasks awaiting volunteers and hungry kids!

Thank you, on behalf of all the hard-working students in the drama performance and Techies program!

 

 

 

Students Reflect on 1st Semester in the English/Drama Block

Ms. Howeth’s students wrote their reflections about their first semester in the English/Drama block.  Read and be inspired:

On learning about being part of a group:

“Being in this drama class has taught me how to work with a group. I grew up an only child and although it may seem like that wouldn’t affect you socially, it really made me spoiled and hard to work with people because I’m so used to getting everything I want. Drama is helping me become a better person in that sense because working with others is a fundamental part of life. Drama is helping me open up to an audience and not be so nervous about being put on the spot.”

“I love my classmates! I made so many great bonds, which gives me a head start in high school.”

“I learned about being a leader and encouraging others to participate. I also learned that I really like acting.”

“I was never that into working with groups since I usually do a lot of the work but I trust my group here and they came through.”

“I never actually talked to some students, nor could I tolerate their random moments. But in the end, they actually memorized their lines and pulled it together. It [the showcase performance] taught me not to judge a book by its cover. I also shouldn’t underestimate a person’s worth or capability.”

“I also learned that I have a lot in common with a lot of other students in my class… Overall, I think, in fact, that coming to 2/3 [English/drama] period is what makes my day, everyday.”

“I have learned how to get along with others in the class, and to have less attitude and to have more fun.”

“If you are weak then you have to step up, but if you have a lot of strength, then you have to give it to the weak people or step back a little bit.”

On persistence and hard work:

“My favorite was the showcase because that’s really the first time I’ve actually worked hard to make something perfect. I was really proud of myself.”

“I felt really proud of myself that day we did the drama performance. I felt very good about myself and also my group because I felt like we really did very good. We did a lot of hard work on that drama performance.”

On confidence:

“This class has taught me to speak up when I feel I need to talk, no matter who the audience is.”

“I have also learned that I am capable of a lot of stuff, such as performing in front of many people although I was very nervous. I’ve also learned how to include my group members in things because before I was pretty much a ‘do it myself’ girl… Also, how to be a good audience member to others.”

“Since I’ve been in your drama class, my shyness is kind of going away and I am becoming okay with the idea of performing.”

“When Ms. Howeth first told us we were performing a play, I didn’t think our class could handle it. But they proved me wrong.”

On engagement with learning:

“Reading is fun. I remembered I wouldn’t read much but now I’m always reading some book.”

“[I have learned] that with just a little imagination you can bring a play to life and that Shakespeare can be pretty cool.”

“At the beginning of the year, I could not read a book. And then one day, you came to me and said ‘read’ and then I thought to myself if I don’t like it then I won’t read. Then I liked to read and I’ve been reading ever since that day, thank you.”

“You taught me that with passion I could do anything. I am growing and can bravely ask questions about anything.”

“I can’t wait to learn new things in the future. Performing in this class would have to be my favorite thing that we did.”

“Over the course of the semester, I have learned that reading a book can be very fun. I read so many fun and funny books.”

Congratulations to Ms. Howeth and her students!

Spring Play 2012: Midsummer Night’s Dream

OakTechRep is delighted to announce the Spring 2012 Show: our own spin on “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” by William Shakespeare.

Don’t miss this touching and funny tale of mistaken identity, quarreling lovers, star-crossed lovers, mischievous fairies and confused actors, presented as a rave with music, dance and lights!

Performances April 25-29 in Tech’s beautiful auditorium (no show on Friday, April 27)

New this year: buy tickets online in advance!

Save money, save hassle, buy your tickets online from Brown Paper Tickets! http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/242396

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Field Trip: “Othello” at Marin Theatre Co.

Mark your calendars for April 17, 2012, the date of an upcoming field trip for beginning drama students to see “Othello” at the Marin Theatre Co.  Watch this space for further details!

 

Drama Field Trip to ACT’s “Humor Abuse”

On January 19th all drama students had a fantastic field trip to the American Conservatory Theatre (ACT) in San Francisco to see the play “Humor Abuse.”

“Humor Abuse” recounts the true story of playwright and actor Lorenzo Pisoni’s childhood as part of the Bay Area’ Pickle Family Circus, and Pisoni’s often-difficult relationship with his father, the circus founder.

In preparation for the field trip, Tech’s drama students had the chance to participate in a physical theatre workshop with ACT Company member Patrick Russell.

Rehearsal Schedule for Spring Play 2012

Rehearsal schedule for Midsummer Night’s Dream:

Jan. 30-April 6 rehearsals

April 16-24 Tech and dress rehearsals

April 25, 26, 28, 29 performances

Drama Student Alumni Discuss College and Career Choices

Drama students, here’s an exciting event if you’re considering studying drama after high school!

Drama Alumni Panel Discussion: College and Career Choices after OakTechRep (in the Arts and beyond….)

Tech Drama alums, you’re invited to participate and talk about what you’ve been doing since you graduated: Where are you?  What college/career choices have you made?  How have you been involved in Arts?  What have you used from your education at Tech in the “Real World”?

January 11, 2012, 3:30-5 p.m. in the Auditorium

Guest Artist from A.C.T.

All current Drama students are invited to a special presentation by a guest artist from San Francisco’s famed American Conservatory Theatre in the Auditorium on January 11, 2012, from 1-2 p.m.

Beginning Drama Showcase for the Congo

Join us for an evening of drama and fundraising for Africa!

On Wednesday, December 14, at 6 p.m. in Room A3, the Beginning Drama class will present a showcase of student-created theatre pieces based on the events and people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Performances will include students from Lindsay Krumbein’s Beginning Drama class, as well as Jessa Berkner’s Beginning Drama class (led by Susannah Wood and Casey Fern).

Admission is a requested $5, with all proceeds going directly to an organization promoting the health and safety of Women in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

For more information please contact Casey Fern – cfern1005@gmail.com
Volunteers Needed for Fall 2011 One-Act Festival

Parents and friends, we need your support for our fall drama production.

Every year, our fabulous productions need the unglamorous but all-important help of the people who are willing to feed our actors and techies, give kids rides home after rehearsals and shows, help sell tickets and concessions and help out during performances.  Will you be one of our local heroes?

You can see the full schedule here, but we especially need help on Thursday, November 17; Friday, November 18; and Saturday, November 19.  If you can bring food to sell at the concessions stand or can help staff the lobby or ticket booth, we need you!  Please contact Ann Daniels at anngdan@pacbell.net

Rehearsal and Performance Schedule for One-Act Festival

Parents and students, please mark your calendars: here is the schedule for the final rehearsals and performances for the Fall 2011 One-Act Festival:

Monday, Nov 14: 3:30pm-10pm Dress Rehearsal

Tuesday, Nov 15: 3:30pm-10pm Dress Rehearsal

Wednesday, Nov 16: 3:30pm-8:30pm Dress Rehearsal NOTE NEW EARLIER END TIME!!!

Thursday, Nov 17: 3:30-7pm Rehearsal/Notes

Thursday, Nov 17: 7:30pm PERFORMANCE

Friday, Nov 18: 3:30-7pm Rehearsal/Photos

Friday, Nov 18: 7:30pm PERFORMANCE

Saturday, Nov 19: 7:30pm PERFORMANCE

 

 

Ancestor Assembly

The Ancestor Assembly is a Tech tradition, with instrumental music, voice, dance and drama presentations.  Mark your calendars!

Auditions Extended for Fall Drama Production

There is ONE MORE opportunity to audition for the upcoming Drama production! This Wednesday, September 28, there will be one more hour of auditions, right after school from 3:30pm-4:30pm in A3. Students auditioning do not need to prepare a monologue, although it is encouraged!

This Fall, the OakTechRep student ensemble is boldly going into brave new territory, as the students become the DIRECTORS. Each student director has chosen a short one-act play to direct, ranging from dark comedies to bold dramas.Students enrolled in Drama classes may be eligible for extra credit if they audition and are cast. Regular rehearsals will be M/W/F 3:30-5:30, with room for some conflicts.

Contact Casey Fern @ cfern1005@gmail.com or 808-292-6130 with any questions.

 

New Arts Credit Recovery Program Offers 10 Units Elective Credit

Tech’s new Arts Credit Recovery Program offers 10 units of elective credit in an after-school class that provides opportunities for students to broaden their skills and try new things!

Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m.: Voice and Creative Writing

Thursdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m.: Technical Arts for Theater

Room A-3

Activities include singing, spoken word, poetry and song writing, set and prop making, sound and lighting design.  No experience required, but students will be expected to participate fully every session and during special events outside of class time.

You MUST attend all classes, Tuesdays AND Thursdays, to receive credit.  You may choose to attend only the Tuesday classes, or only the Thursday classes, but you will not receive credit.

This class is especially useful for juniors and seniors who need to complete their arts credit for graduation, but the class is open to all students.

For more information, please contact Susannah Wood, wood.susannah@yahoo.com

One-Act Drama Festival

The Oakland Tech Drama Department is pleased to announce its fall production:

A Festival of One-Act Plays

Come see this exciting new venture, with Tech’s Production Drama students directing, acting in and working on all aspects of a variety of short one-act plays.  From romantic duels to lovelorn roommates, from out-of-body experiences to international adventures, the plays we have lined up offer a truly unique blend of joy, sorrow, and mystery. Don’t miss out on this fabulous evening!

If you’ve been to a Tech drama production, you know what a treat this will be.  And if you haven’t … what are you waiting for?  Bring your friends, bring your family!

With a special performance by the Tech Chorus

In the beautiful Tech Auditorium, 42nd Street just off Broadway

Admission: $8 general, $5 with OUSD ID.  All proceeds go directly toward funding the arts at Tech!

 

 

English/Drama Frequently Asked Questions

The following is adapted from a handout distributed at Back To School Night, September 22, 2011, by Ninth Grade College Prep English/Drama teacher Ms. Howeth.

What will my child learn this year?

This class integrates literature, language arts, and performing arts. It focuses on developing critical thinking, reading, writing, and speaking skills that will empower students to accomplish both personal and academic goals. Through drama, we will examine the human condition. In this class, we will use movement, sound, and dialogue to communicate meaning to an audience.

What will my child read?

Currently, we are reading The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros. Next, we will read Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers, and A Raisin in the Sun (play) by Lorraine Hansberry. In the spring, we will read Always Running by Luis J. Rodriguez, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, and Our America by LeAlan Jones and Lloyd Newman. In addition to the primary texts, we will read several short stories, poems, and nonfiction informational texts. Also, the students will read monologues and one-act plays. Finally, students will read at least four books of their choice.

Is there homework?

Yes, there is homework every night. On Mondays and Wednesdays, students are asked to read their independent reading book for thirty minutes or more and to bring it to class (the following day). On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and weekends, students may be assigned class reading and/or writing for homework.

How can I monitor my child’s progress?

Students and parents can access his/her grade online through the ABI Parent and Student Portals at https://abi.oaklandusd.org/parent/ Please contact your child’s science teacher regarding his/her Aeries sign in information. You may also email the ABI hotline: abi-hotline@oaklandtech.com

How often are there projects or essays?

There is a project or essay at the end of every unit of study, on average two per marking period. In drama, there will be two showcase performances. The first showcase will be at the end of the first semester. The second showcase will be in the spring, towards the end of the year.

What are Houses and why are 9th graders in a House?

Houses are a 9th grade structure that allows for more individualized attention and support for each student. Students in the same house have the same Math and English teachers. There are three different houses in 9th grade. All of Ms. Howeth’s students are in the Vulcan house. Vulcan is the Roman god of fire and smithery. The teachers in this house include Ms. Pustell, Ms. Hayes, and Ms. Howeth.  The teachers meet on a weekly basis to find ways to support the students that they share.

When is Ms. Howeth available for an appointment or tutoring?

Ms. Howeth is available in the mornings, at lunch, and afterschool on most days (unless there is a staff meeting).  She provides academic support for students that are not earning the grade that they desire, on Thursdays after school.

How can I contact Ms Howeth?

There are several ways to contact Ms. Howeth.  You may:

●     Leave a note in Ms. Howeth’s box in the school’s main office.

●     Email Ms. Howeth: nischalah@yahoo.com

●     Leave a phone message with the school secretary, at 510-879-2130.

●     Call Ms. Howeth directly, (916) 218-2837.

Production Drama: Grades

Production Drama is a for-credit course and grades are given.  These are the components of students’ grades in Production Drama:

Daily participation: 25%.

  • self-assessment at the end of each class.

Application of knowledge: 30%.

  • performances
  • rehearsals and the creation process

Mastery of knowledge: 10%

  • line memorization
  • quizzes and tests

Reflection: 15%

  • written self-reflections
  • discussion and critique
  • audience etiquette

Leadership skills: 20%

  • collaboration
  • creative voice
  • reliability
Production Drama Projects and Important Dates

Weeks 1-3: Hero Journey and Physical Theatre Immersion

  • September 17, Piano dedication performance

Weeks 4-5: Play Selection, Audition Prep, Auditions, Casting

  • Friday, September 23 and Monday, September 26 after school, One-Act auditions

Weeks 5-6: Launch One-Acts: read-throughs, initial blocking, design concepts

Weeks 7-10: Rehearsals, presentations, design construction

  • October 9: Rockridge Fair, solo and group presentations
  • October 13, parent preview night, solo and group presentations
  • October 14, field trip to CalShakes “Taming of the Shrew” (parents, please note: chaperones needed!)
  • Late October, TBA: Ancestor Assembly

Weeks 11-12: Tech rehearsals and performance

  • November 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15 – Tech rehearsals
  • November 16, 17, 18 – Performances
Production Drama 2011-12 Course Requirements

In 2011-2012, Production Drama will be taught by Technical Director Casey Fern, Susannah Wood (Fridays), and Jessa Berkner (on maternity leave for the first part of the year – congratulations to Ms. J!)

Class Goals:

Through art, we seek to explore theh human condition to gain understanding of ourselves, others, and our world.  Through drama, we seek understanding, as well.  But in drama, we use the tools of our own moving, thinking, feeling selves.  Through movement, voice, feeling and live interaction with our audience, we will further our own understanding and the understanding of others.

In this class, it is assumed that the student is entering with a high level of theatrical experience, emotional maturity, and commitment to the Performing Arts.  This class is designed to produce inspired, student-driven, ensemble-based productions on our very own Oakland Tech Auditorium stage.

About the Class:

This class requires outside prep and a commitment to rehearsals and events that will sometimes fall outside the standard meeting time.  Once we launch a production, you MUST commit to and follow through with the rehearsal schedule or your grade will be hurt.

For the most part, this class will function like a professional, theatrical rehearsal.  When a professional theatrical artist misses a rehearsal, they are docked pay.  here, your grade will suffer.  When a professional theatrical artist fails to perform in a show, they are not paid for their work at all.  If you back out of a project at such a date that it severely affects the work of others, you will fail this class.

Much more than grades and credit, though, this class is about ensemble and community.  Keep the good of the group in mind at all times.  We are stronger together than we are individually.  The level of work that you put in to this class is a call to your peers to reach for that same level.

Be honest, considerate, hard-working, patient, and ambitious.

Performance Celebrates Restoration of Tech’s Piano

On Saturday, September 17, 2001, the Tech community and the public had a real treat: a free concert and performance celebrating the restoration of Tech’s beautiful Steinway grand piano.

Tech’s Class of 1961, led by Camille Reed, spearheaded an effort that raised over $25,000 for the restoration of Tech’s magnificent piano.  This concert was a gift to the Class of 1961 and to the community in thanks for this act of tremendous generosity.

The concert featured a dedication of the newly restored piano and an extraordinary performance by Tech Junior Jacenta Yu of “Swipesy” by Scott Joplin, “Love Story” by Francis Lai, and the Prelude in C#minor Op. 3 No.2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff, followed by wonderful performances by students in the Drama and Dance programs.  The audience, including members of the Class of ’61, current and former Tech students and families, and members of the community, were delighted at the quality of the offerings.

Congratulations to all our performers, and many thanks to Camille Reed, the Piano Committee and the Class of ’61!

If you would like to help renovate Tech’s Auditorium, please click the “Donate” button on this page.  Thank you!

 

 

 

Free Theater Opportunity for Parent Chaperones

Parents, here’s a great opportunity to see some amazing theater – free!

On October 14, the Drama classes will be attending Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” at Cal Shakes.  Parent chaperones are urgently needed.  The good news is that you don’t need to drive and you don’t need to pay, and you get to see the show!

The field trip will be an all-day event, leaving during FIRST PERIOD and returning during SIXTH PERIOD.  Plan to meet at the Auditorium in the morning, walk to MacArthur BART, take BART to the theater, attend the show, take BART back, and walk back to the school.  It looks to be a great show, which would normally cost about $40 to see.

Permission forms for the trip are still being processed, so don’t worry if your student hasn’t mentioned the trip; most students are aware of the excursion even if they have not signed up.  You will receive all necessary paperwork in plenty of time for the trip.

If you are interested in chaperoning and seeing the play, please contact Casey Fern: cfern1005@gmail.com, 808-292-6130

 

Water Cooler Bottles Needed for Congo Project

Do you have any large water-cooler bottles that you can donate?  The Beginning and Advanced Drama classes need them to create home-made drums as part of a project in which they will use physical theatre techniques to examine issues affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo.

If you can help, please contact Lindsay Krumbein, lindsaykrumbein@gmail.com or Casey Fern, cfern1005@gmail.com, 808-292-6130.

 

Please Feed our Actors!

Starting Friday, May 13, the Drama rehearsals will be going until the evening, and we need parent volunteers to help bring MEALS for the actors and tech crew. Generally, two parents take on each meal so that one person does not have to buy TOO much. The needs are:

* Friday May 20 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Saturday May 21 – Lunch for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Saturday May 21 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Monday May 23 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Tuesday May 24 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Wednesday May 25 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Thursday May 26 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Friday May 27 – Lunch for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Friday May 27 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)

Contact Casey Fern at cfern1005@gmail.com or Phyllis Hall at THINMAN01@mail.com to sign up for one of the meals. Please let us know before you bring food, as we don’t want to have all our volunteers bringing food on ONE night. (It has happened!)

- Starting Friday, May 13, the Drama rehearsals will be going until the evening, and we need parent volunteers to help bring MEALS for the actors and tech crew. Generally, two parents take on each meal so that one person does not have to buy TOO much. The needs are:

* Friday May 20 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Saturday May 21 – Lunch for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Saturday May 21 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Monday May 23 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Tuesday May 24 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Wednesday May 25 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Thursday May 26 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Friday May 27 – Lunch for Cast and Crew (30+ people)
* Friday May 27 – Dinner for Cast and Crew (30+ people)

Contact Casey Fern at cfern1005@gmail.com or Phyllis Hall at THINMAN01@mail.com to sign up for one of the meals. Please let us know before you bring food, as we don’t want to have all our volunteers bringing food on ONE night. (It has happened!)

Needs List for Blues for an Alabama Sky

BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY

NEEDS LIST

If you can supply any of these items for the spring production, please contact Casey Fern as soon as possible at cfern1005@gmail.com

—-BACKSTAGE NEEDS—-

Large rolls of White Paper

Metal Rolling Clothing Racks

Clip Lights & Colored Light Bulbs

PLAY IS SET IN 1930s – ITEMS BELOW MUST FIT THE PERIOD…

—-SET PIECES—-

Small Rocking Chair

Cupboards

Large Picture Frame

Metal Clothing Rack (more than one…for backstage, too)

—-COSTUME NEEDS—-

Hats – (1930s…men’s and women’s)

Suspenders

Bow Ties and Cummerbunds

Black or White Leotards

—-STAGE PROPS—-

Brown Postal/Mailing Wrapping Paper

Several Bolts of Fabric

Old-Fashioned Hot Plates – TWO!

Old-Fashioned Coffee Pots / Kettles – TWO!

China Tea Set

- China Plates

-  Tea Pot

-  Teacups

-  Silver Tray

-  Sugar Dish

Champagne Glasses

Vintage Bottles

Ice Bucket

Old-Fashioned Medicine Bottle

Small Leather Suitcase

Small Overnight Bag (women’s)

Ladies’ Fans

Jewelry (especially Earrings)

Makeup (especially Lipstick)

Dress Box

Sparkling Cider

Spring Play 2011: Blues for an Alabama Sky

Harlem Renaissance star Josephine Baker

Harlem Renaissance star Josephine Baker

OakTechRep,

Oakland Technical High School’s Award-Winning Theatre Program,

Presents:

“Blues for An Alabama Sky”

by Pearl Cleage

Directed by Guest Artist Daunielle Rasmaussen

Choreography by Ena Dallas

Design by Casey Fern and the Tech Techies

Produced by Jessa Brie Berkner

A Drama Set in the Fabulous Harlem Renaissance

Featuring Artists! Dancers! Revolutionaries!

Two Casts: See Both Shows!

Four Performances Only at Oakland Technical H.S. Auditorium (42nd @ Broadway):

Wed, May 25th 7pm, Thursday May 26th 7pm, Friday, May 27th, 2pm & 7pm

Tickets Available at Door:

Students and Teachers with OUSD ID: $5/ General Admission $8

Join Us for a Post-Show Discussion with the Cast after Friday’s 2pm Matinee!

Thank you for Supporting Arts in Education!
See you at the Theater!

Blues for an Alabama Sky Rehearsal Schedule

As of April 3, this is the updated rehearsal schedule for Tech’s Spring 2011 play, Blues for an Alabama Sky.

Note: This is the same schedule that came home with students the last week of March.  It’s updated from the April 1 post in that it includes performance days, which have pre-performance rehearsal time.

The schedule also includes weekend rehearsals; load-in (May 16), which will includes both students and parents; tech rehearsals (May 18, 20, and 21) and dress rehearsals (May 23 and 24).

Performance dates are May 25, 26 and 27; the performance schedule is listed on a different post.

Please check back regularly to see if there are any changes.

Tech Student’s Play to be Performed at Berkeley Rep School of Theater

naomi-head-shotThe Drama department is thrilled to announce that Oakland Tech Junior Naomi Zingman-Daniels, a student in the Advanced Drama and Performance Drama classes, has won the Berkeley Rep Teen One-Act Festival‘s 2011 playwriting competition.  Naomi’s play, “Speak Like This,” will be produced the first two weekends of April, 2011.

“Speak Like This” is a series of interwoven monologues by five strangers during a year in their lives, as shown through their prayers.  “It’s less about religion than about what people keep close and what they push away in their time of need,” says Naomi, who took Jessa Berkner’s creative writing class as a sophomore last year and plans to study creative writing in college.  Tech audiences saw Naomi in last year’s productions of “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” and “Twelfth Night” and this year’s “Dracula,” and readers of this website may be familiar with her blogs from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for CalShakes.  About winning the Teen One-Act competition, Naomi says, “It feels like I won the world!”

Teens competed to direct and act in “Speak Like This” and one other play, “Nothing Happens and Nobody Knows What They’re Talking About,” by Piedmont High School student Andrew Moorhead.  The two winning playwrights receive mentoring from Berkeley Rep staff and professional guidance on their scripts.

dracula-poster-emailBerkeley Rep honored one further young playwright: Tech senior Tenecia Redding, whose play, “Cracked Mud,” will also receive professional scripwriting guidance.  Tech audiences recently saw Tenecia as Mina Harker in this year’s production of “Dracula” (and on the stunning poster for that performance!) and as “O” (Ophelia) in last year’s “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain.”

Congratulations to Naomi and Tenecia!

Tech’s Performing Arts Department Threatened by Budget Cuts

We all know the economy is bad.  But did you know that our children are right in the line of the budget axe?

Current budget proposals would eliminate nearly all performing arts from all schools in California.

Watch a video made by student Saskia Levy-Sheon in which Tech Performing Arts students explain what the arts have meant to them, and what it would mean to have performing arts programs cut:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCj43SO_sXE

Arts Committee Meeting

Our students produce amazing works of performing and fine art, and the arts fuel their academic lives, but budget cuts threaten the arts in schools.  We need your input!

Please join us at a meeting of the Arts Committee, Friday, March 25, at 7:30 a.m. in the Principal’s Conference Room.

Showcase of Scenes by Advanced Production Drama Class

The Advanced Production drama class presents a showcase of scenes from the “Brother/Sister Plays” by award-winning playwright Tarrell Alvin McCraney in Room A-3 on Monday, February 7, 2011.

This presentation is free, but students are requested to bring snacks.

PLEASE NOTE: these scenes contain strong language and mature subject matter.  Please do not bring young children or anyone who will be offended or will not be able to watch with respect.

Arts Committee Work Day, January 8

under-construction

We will be having a volunteer work day this Saturday, January 8, from 10am-3pm.

Meet at the Auditorium to find out how you can help. Even just 30 minutes out of your day is extremely helpful. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to better get to know others in the community.

We will be sprucing up the Auditorium, organizing backstage areas, and helping with the needs of the Dance Studio.

From 12pm-1pm we will break for a meeting of the Performing Arts Committee.  Lunch will be provided!  All are welcome to sit in and provide input on the discussion, which will focus on getting ready for upcoming events and addressing long-term goals of the program.

Here is a list of helpful items you can bring to the work day:
> SUPER HELPFUL ITEMS…
> – cardboard boxes
> – SNACKS/WATER/lunch potluck
> – power drills

> HELPFUL ITEMS…
> – dollies/hand trucks
> – rags, buckets, cleaning supplies
> – boombox

> CAN ALWAYS USE MORE…
> – tools (hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, it all helps)
> – gloves, goggles, ear protection

For more information, please contact Casey Fern at (808) 292-6130.

Reflection on Dracula

big-dead-love-dracula-and-bridesBy Gareth Tidball, Class of 2012

As I always manage to do with any play, I had a great time being a part of OakTechRep’s Fall production of Dracula. From the very first rehearsal up until the last performance, I had a blast. I got to know a bunch of talented, supportive, and hilarious people, and broadened my knowledge of working on a show with such a large cast.

When I learned that I got the role of Dracula, I was extremely excited and, I have to say, pretty proud of myself. I had felt confident that I had done well at auditions, and I knew something was up at callbacks when Ms. J had me read for Dracula multiple times. But when I saw my name on the cast list, I thought, Great! Now I’ll get to know what playing a lead role is like!

But gradually, I came to learn that the part of Dracula didn’t fit any of the stereotypes of a lead role in the slightest. For one, he isn’t a hero. And he’s kind of what you would call…undead. So although I wouldn’t consider him a soulless murderer, he isn’t the sort of person you’d like to have over for dinner, either. Neither is he played by a good-looking, egotistical actor with a nasty smoking habit. At least, not in our version.

I immediately started diving into character research. I googled images and websites on the history of vampires, and put almost all of the Dracula movies I could find on my Netflix account. Of course, some were better than others. I couldn’t even finish the 1993 version with Gary Oldman. It was so over the top! My favorite was a German Nosferatu film from the 70s. The ending comprised of Mina killing Nosferatu right before tumbling over from weakness of blood loss herself, and Harker exposing a mouthful of sharp teeth before riding off into the sunset. I decided to loosely base my physicality on the more inhuman portrayals of the famous vampire, with clawlike hands and wide eyes. I didn’t think I could pull off the gentlemanly qualities that Bela Lugosi had portrayed.

As rehearsals went on, I noticed how the general enthusiasm of the cast was somewhat wild and unharnessed. This didn’t bother me as much as I think it should have. I was just happy that people were generally willing to work and understanding of each other.

I was fascinated by the whole three-wheeled contraption we had created. Never before had I been in a play with such strong divisions between music, narration, and visual sections. It made me able to pinpoint what actually gave me chills. Most of the time, it was the Foley group. I was aware that sound and music had always seemed to trigger stronger emotions from within me than images had, but the Foley artists confirmed that. There’s something about a violin and drum duo that really makes my hair stand on end. I ended up interpreting this play as a way to discover one’s fears. Certain things scare certain people more than others, and I think it is really important for people to know what those things are in order to gain a more in-depth understanding of themselves. Hopefully, Dracula did that for its viewers.

The performances went smoothly. Personally, I felt the most edge as a performer during opening night, and concluded that I did my best on that night. However, everyone else I talked to who had seen it more than once had seen substantial improvement of my performance overall in the last two shows. Looking back, I guess I had settled into the role more as the shows went on, and although I interpreted that unpredictability of that first night as a positive thing for the character, being more settled meant struggling less, and no one likes looking at an actor who seems to be struggling onstage.

I got positive feedback from friends and parents. My uncle had journeyed from Las Vegas to come see the show, and he really liked it. After my parents saw the show for the first time, I vaguely noticed my father with a wide-eyed look on his face. When we got home, he gave me a really long hug and told me I was terrifying. Then, after he left the room, my mom said, “You know how he doesn’t like seeing scary movies or anything like that. I could tell… he got really scared back there.”

However, I don’t want to sugar-coat my experience about being in this play. Even though I didn’t grow to dislike anyone in the cast, nor did I have issues with lines or character development, I think the most difficult part of the process was coming home every night after rehearsal to reluctantly embrace the cold, emotionless arms of torture, which would be referred to by some as simply a huge stack of homework. And although quite a few of my teachers attended the performances, most of them seemed unaware of how much work had been put into what they had watched. I’m still trying to get back up to speed in my classes academically. Luckily, it was worth all the catching up.

And then, of course, there was the assembly a few days after the performances, during which the cast performed selected scenes for the student body. It still frustrates me to think about what happened. Although the students were supposedly much better behaved than in previous years, it was still incredibly disrespectful for them to laugh and yell out rude comments. Yet, they became silent during the music and dance performances! Some people have said that it is easier for them to simply watch or listen rather than do both, as is required for a drama performance, but this explanation still doesn’t entirely satisfy me. I’m still puzzled about how a student can decide to give respect for one facet of art and completely trash another. Maybe one day I’ll find out.

But now, I really miss being in Dracula. I have always loved being artistically occupied, and theatre seems to fill that void in the best way. To me, it produces the most rewarding results, because unlike writing or painting, which at times can be very personal, the sole purpose of theatre is to be shared and enjoyed by everyone. It brings very enthusiastic people together to work towards a goal of enlightening society in an effective manner, and leaves the participants feeling accomplished.

This was utterly amazing to be a part of, and I want to thank Miss J. and Casey for making this possible.  I wholeheartedly consider you both as blood of my blood…but in a good way.

Performing Arts Information Reception

Oakland Technical High School

Performing Arts Information Reception

  • Light Refreshments
  • Performances by
    • Advanced Dance
    • Advanced Drama
    • Advanced Orchestra
    • Tech Techies
  • Question & Answer Period
  • Performing Arts Committee Drive

For more information:

Call 510-879-3050

All Oakland Tech Performing Arts students & families are welcome!

Please Feed Dracula!

… well, actually, the entire cast and crew need feeding.  They’ll be rehearsing long and hard until the play opens, and they need the energy to prepare the wonderful show they’ll be presenting to you soon.

Can you help prepare some food for our hardworking students to eat in the evenings between October 29 and November 6?  If you can volunteer to prepare all or part of a meal, or would like to know more, please contact Phyllis Hall at thinman01@mail.com

Dracula Performance Help Needed

An important part of every Tech production is family support at performances: selling concessions (goodies) before the show and during intermission, donating or baking goodies to sell, selling tickets, etc.  If you can help do any of this, please contact Phyllis Hall at thinman01@mail.com.

Wish List for “Dracula” Production

Dracula wants your … donations!

We’ve had some great donations come in for the production of “Dracula,” which is right around the corner!  Thank you to the generous people who have donated costume racks, iron, reading lights, steamers and props.  Here’s the current list of what we still need:
Tech Needs:
- Microphone Clips for Stands (Various Sizes)
- Extension Cords (preferably black or dark color)
- Music Stand Lights/Reading Lights
- Clamp Lights
- Black Gaffers Tape
- Eye Dropper (for stage blood)

Costume Needs:
- Single Burner Stove (for dyeing fabrics)
- Large Pot (for dyeing fabrics)
- Portable Sewing Machines

Set and Props Needs:
- Black, White, or Grey Blanket/Bedding (for a FULL size bed)
- 4 short black wooden stools (or stools we could paint black)
- Pocket Watch
- Stethoscope
- Old-timey luggage (hard case)
- Wood mallet
- Wooden Stake

Random:
- Ship Captain’s Wheel
- Twisty Tree Branches

Most items will be returned after the show, which ends November 6. But we won’t stop you if you want to donate an item permanently to our supplies! 

If you don’t have any of the above items, but would still like to support the show, please contact Casey Fern at cfern1005@gmail.com or Phyllis Hall at thinman01@mail.com. We need parent volunteers for concessions, front of house, and rehearsal support.

Thank you!

Beginning Drama – Afghanistan

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For its first project, the Beginning Drama class is exploring the impact of the Taliban on Afghanistan.  The students are devising mini-pieces, focusing on image theater and news theater.

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Back to School Night – Performing Arts Edition

tech-front-facade1You’re invited to “Back to School Night – Performing Arts Edition.”

Come meet and mingle with teachers, administrators and parents (refreshments served!) in Tech’s beautiful auditorium, find out what your students are doing and what’s planned in Tech’s arts courses, and learn about plans to continue upgrading and renovating the auditorium.  And of course, there will be time for you to ask questions and find out how you can become involved in making Tech’s arts education even better!

We need volunteers for this event to bring and set up refreshments.  Please contact Performing Arts Chair Sonja Travick at ayanoni@aol.com if you can help.

Dracula rehearsal schedule

Rehearsal schedule for Dracula, the fall drama production.

Dracula! at Tech!

dracula-poster-emailForget about Twilight and True Blood – this is the story that started it all!

Tech’s Production Drama class is proud to present Bram Stoker’s classic Dracula in an adaptation of Orson Welles’ fabulous radio play.  This production, with one of the biggest casts ever in a Tech play, will feature fantastic sets by the Tech Techies and live soundscapes by the Choral and Voice class.

Four performances in the newly, beautifully painted Tech Auditorium on 42nd Street and Broadway:

7 p.m. on November 4, 5 and 6

2 p.m. matinee on November 6

Ancestors Assembly

Each year, Tech’s performing arts students honor some of the diverse cultural traditions that our student body represents through music, spoken word, dramatic performance and dance in the Ancestors Assembly.  The entire student body and all staff and faculty attend this moving and beautiful event.

This will be the first all-school performance in our newly, beautifully painted auditorium!

Parent volunteers are needed for this event.  If you can help, please contact Dance teacher and Performing Arts Department Chair Sonja Travick at ayanoni@aol.com.

Performing Arts Classes at Oakland Tech, Academic Year 2010-2011

Music:

  • Beginning band, 1st period
  • Piano, 2nd period
  • Band, 4th period
  • Orchestra, 5th period
  • Jazz band, 6th period
  • Chorus and voice, 7th period (after school) Tuesdays and minimum Wednesdays (not for credit)

Dance:

  • Beginning dance, 2nd period
  • Beginning dance, 3rd, 4th and 5th periods
  • Advanced dance, 6th period

Drama:

  • 9th grade Drama/English, 2nd/3rd and 5th/6th periods
  • Beginning drama
  • Advanced Drama, 6th period
  • Performance Drama, 7th period (after school) Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Tech Techies:

  • 7th period (after school) Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday (not for credit)
Performing Arts Committee Retreat

All are welcome to the Performing Arts Committee Retreat, Sunday, October 3, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Teachers and parents will come together to talk about our plans and hopes for the Performing Arts Academy, the Drama, Dance and Music departments, and the Auditorium this coming year and in the future.

The Retreat will be held at the Attitudinal Healing Connection, 3278 West Street (corner of 33rd St. and West St.).  A light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Welcome to Drama Teacher Lindsay Krumbein

lindsay-krumbeinBeginning Drama teacher Lindsay Krumbein is a new face in the Oakland Tech performing arts department, but an old hand in the teaching business. After teaching both English and Drama at Bay Area schools for the last eight years, including Mission High School in San Francisco, Unity in East Oakland, and Impact Academy in Hayward, she had a baby in June of 2009, decided to step out of the classroom and into the domain of professional theatre, and spent 2009-2010 developing a new education program, Rising Stars, at a small, popular theater in San Francisco, the SF Playhouse. Ms. Krumbein met Tech Drama teacher Jessa Brie Berkner through one of the Playhouse education programs last year, and a beautiful blossoming partnership was formed!

Ms. Krumbein has a wide range of experience in addition to her classroom teaching, including directing and producing nine youth productions over the last six years, both modern one-acts and unabridged Shakespeare plays. After teaching at large, comprehensive city schools, as well as small charters that focus on project based learning, Ms. Krumbein has developed a unique understanding of the diverse needs of schools, teachers, and students. At her last school, she created the advisory curriculum used by all teachers, and created and ran numerous large projects culminating in school-wide exhibitions. She served as the School Culture Lead, developing lessons designed to help students collaborate effectively, as well as feel safe and connected within their school community. Ms. Krumbein loves working with students of all ages to build trust, and encourage risk-taking and leadership. In her position at SF Playhouse, she runs a youth ensemble, and administers a theater subscription program for high school students. She also leads professional development seminars for teachers, utilizing in a practical, hands-on approach that gives teachers concrete strategies for integrating drama to take and apply right away.

Ms. Krumbein says of her Beginning Drama class at Tech: “Through drama, we examine the human condition, exploring thoughts, ideas, emotions, and questions. In this class, we will use movement, sound, and dialogue to help audiences learn, feel, and understand.”  See the syllabus for Ms. Krumbein’s Beginning Drama class 2010-2011.

Beginning Drama Syllabus 2010-2011

Beginning Drama 2010-2011

Instructor: Lindsay Krumbein

lindsaykrumbein@gmail.com

_______________________________________________________________

Through drama, we examine the human condition, exploring thoughts, ideas, emotions, and questions. In this class, we will use movement, sound, and dialogue to help audiences learn, feel, and understand.

This class is workshop based. Your first project involves Physical Theatre – experimenting with new concepts through movement. For the second project, we use what we’ve learned through movement techniques to engage in script study and development, and explore the elements that go into staging performances and writing plays. To close the year we will study and perform Shakespearean comedy.

rules:

1. Be safe! Keep everyone in the room safe – that means both physically, and emotionally.
2. Work hard! Take risks! Be brave! Try every activity, even those that make you nervous or uncomfortable.
3. Maintain focus and a positive attitude throughout the whole period.
4. Show up on time for class every day! In-class activities are how we learn – you won’t pass if you’re not there.
5. Dress appropriately – we remove our shoes, jewelry, and other accessories for the safety of both your body and your possessions. You MUST be able to move in your clothes.
6. Audience etiquette – watch and listen supportively and attentively when your classmates perform. Applaud enthusiastically when they finish.

what you will learn:

Group Dynamics
• How to be successful in a group and develop leadership skills
• How to work closely and comfortably with all sorts of people
Theatre Technique
• Movement elements (which show specific emotion or point of view)
• Devising a piece (around theme, character, music, props)
• Analyzing, interpreting and critiquing dramatic texts and peer performances
• Writing artist statements, monologues & one-act plays
Freedom of Expression
• Try new activities without fear or self-consciousness
• Overcome shyness and stage-fright
• Perform with confidence
projects:

Project 1: Afghanistan: Activism through Art - Physical Theatre
Project 2: Who Am I? Self-Reflection through Dramatic Writing - Monologues & One-Act Plays
Project 3: Mardi Gras: a Wild Romp with Shakespearean Comedy - The Comedy of Errors

grading:

Each assignment you complete is worth 10 points, and will fall into one of five categories, which are listed below. At the end of the marking period, I will average your scores in each category to calculate your final grade. Late work is worth ½ credit. After any absence, you must check the table of contents and request your missing notes or handouts.

Mastery of Knowledge – 20%
• line memorization
• quizzes & tests
Application of Knowledge – 20%
• performances
• rehearsal & the creation process
Reflection – 20%
• written self-reflections
• discussion & critique
• audience etiquette
Leadership Skills – 20%
• collaboration
• creative voice
• reliability
Daily Participation – 20%
• self-assessment at the end of each class

_______________________________________________________________

Please keep in mind that in this drama class, you have complete control over your success; if you genuinely try your hardest, you will be successful. You do not have to be a great actor to do well in this class. As long as you engage with every activity, treat your classmates and yourself with respect, complete your work, and take the class seriously, you will do well!

Technical Director Casey Fern’s Wish List

under-constructionHello Parents, Faculty, and Friends of the Performing Arts at Oakland Tech.

The Tech Techies after-school program needs your help!  We need some tools and supplies to really kick the program into high gear. My goal is to turn the Workshop behind the Auditorium into a functioning work space where students can learn what it is like to design lights, sound, sets, props, and costumes in the professional theatre world. And since Tech Techies’ goal is to better serve all performances at Oakland Tech, any support you give the program will in turn support ALL performing arts at our school.

If you can buy, donate, or lend any of the following items, please email me at cfern1005@gmail.com.

Thank you very much,
Casey Fern

  • Shop Tools: crescent wrenches, clamps, tape measures, hand saw, channel locks
  • Hardware: screws, washers, bolts, and nuts of all sizes
  • Building Supplies: wood of all types (1x, 2x, plywood, lauan), glue, hinges, casters
  • Safety Gear: gloves, eye protection, face masks
  • Power Tools: jig saw, shop vacuum, palm sander, miter saw
  • Costume Supplies: sewing machines, iron, ironing board
  • Sound Equipment: cables, microphones, speakers
  • Theatrical Items: paints, gaff tape, ropes, chains, scrim fabric, doors
  • Other: cleaning supplies, boombox
OakTechRep Memories From the Fringe

naomi-and-krystal-at-signpostOakTechRep’s cast and crew continue to write about their experience at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival:

This has been the best two weeks of my life. Ms. J had us running around Edinburgh to see shows we never thought of seeing before. It was crazy and hectic, especially tech rehearsal. I got only about two hours to make up lighting design and hoped for the best because I couldn’t and wouldn’t see the result of my hard work until the first day of our show; but the first hour of the rehearsal was just me getting to the know the lighting board. And heck I had a ton of fun doing that.

Read the rest of this entry »

Meet Jessa Berkner

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Drama teacher and Performing Arts and Theatre Director Jessa Brie Berkner is an award-winning professional actor and educator who has performed and taught theatre for the past fifteen years in theatres, conservatories, schools, and training programs in the U.S. and Canada.

In the Bay Area, “Ms. J” has performed with ACT, MTC, SF Shakes, Center Rep, TheatreWorks and San Jose Stage. Professional Awards include an Emmy, Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle, Dean Goodman, and Shellie Best Actress Awards.  For the past four years she has been a leader in the development of Theatre Arts in Alameda County and City of Oakland Public Education.

As Performing Arts and Theatre Director at Oakland Technical High School, Ms. J has adapted Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God for the stage, directed two documentary shorts, several plays, and produced one full-length film of the play “Oakland: Inside Out,” a verbatim theatre piece developed with her student company OakTechRep; this performance won the American High School Theatre Award, allowing OakTechRep to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland in August 2010.   Under Ms. J’s direction, OakTechRep performed a version of Naomi Iizuka’s powerful play Hamlet: Blood In the Brain at the Fringe Festival, and locally at CalShakes and Stanford University.

Jessa Berkner was trained with Carnegie-Mellon, USC, and the International School of Comic Acting/Teatro del Vicolo (with Maestro Antonio Fava). She holds a teaching credential in English/Drama and is currently an MFA Candidate with the California Institute of Integral Studies’ Interdisciplinary Arts Program, with a focus in Directing. During summer 2010 she Assistant Directed Macbeth at CalShakes with Joel Sass.

Welcome to Tech Director Casey Fern

casey-fernOakland Tech welcomes Casey Fern, our new Technical Director (full title: “Technical Director for the Auditorium and the Tech Techies After School Program” – yeah!)

Casey has recently moved to the Bay Area after studying the dramatic arts in Seattle, Washington.  He received his B.A. in Theatre from Seattle University, where he studied stage management, stagecraft, and performance.  Casey hopes to bring his skills in carpentry and set construction to Oakland Tech by turning the Workshop behind the Auditorium stage into a fully fledged Scene Shop.  The students in the Tech Techies after school program will have the opportunity to build a fully fledged set this year, in addition to their previous duties of designing lights and sound and working as the backstage crew for the shows.  Casey knows they will be up to the challenge.

Casey is working on his “wish list” for the workshop.  In the meantime, parents interested in contacting him or looking to get their student into the after school program can email him at cfern1005@gmail.com.

He hopes that all students who participate in Drama this year – whether onstage or backstage – will be part of Tech’s supportive community where they can find their creative voice.

OakTechRep is a Hit at the Fringe!

OakTechRep at their performance venue, the Church Hill Theater

OakTechRep at their performance venue, the Church Hill Theater

The public has spoken, and the critics have spoken, and OakTechRep is a big hit at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival!

Three Weeks, the Fringe Festival’s main publication, says “Come feel the love at the Church Hill Theatre as this dynamic, awardwinning troupe of high school students presents Hamlet: Blood in the Brain,” in a feature article (type Oakland into the search box in the middle of the top of the page).

The students were interviewed – and rapped – on a Scottish radio show.  Unfortunately, we don’t have audio for you …

And they’re packing the house.  The tradition at the Fringe is for the actors to stand on street corners handing out flyers for their plays, and the students and teachers report that everyone wants to come, from fellow American High School Theater Festival winners (who could get in free but are paying to make sure they get seats!) to drag queen passersby who think the show sounds amazing.  Which it is!  People are asking the students for their autographs and photos … they are stars!

OakTechRep Students Write From the Fringe

group-in-front-of-big-benOn August 23, 2010, the students in OakTechRep sent this description of their travels in England and Scotland as winners of the American High School Theater Festival.   Each student describes a slightly different aspect of their trip; read the whole piece to get a flavor of what these extraordinary young men and women have seen, done, and achieved:

Hey everyone, it’s Naomi Zingman-Daniels (Fate; Funeral Home Attendant). I’m typing this from Pollock Halls all the way over in Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s been amazing! It feels like we’ve been here three weeks, not six days, and pretty much everyone wants to stay for a long time more. We’ve seen so much good theatre and we’ve started our run of Hamlet: Blood in the Brain off fantastically. When we got in, it was hectic –

Read the rest of this entry »

OakTechRep at the Fringe!

Tech’s Advanced Drama students leave for London on August 14, on their way to performing in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.  They’ll spend a couple of days in and around London, including seeing a play and rehearsing their own play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, and then it’s off to Edinburgh, Scotland!  In addition to performing at the Fringe Festival, they’ll see as many plays at the Fringe as they can possibly fit in, and sightsee in Scotland (ancient castles, but probably not the Loch Ness Monster).

You can follow the students’ adventures on the California Shakespeare Theater’s blog!  just go to http://calshakes.blogspot.com/search?q=oaktechrep, or go to http://calshakes.blogspot.com and enter “oaktechrep” in the search box.

Follow OakTechRep on the CalShakes Blog!

Now you can follow the Advanced Drama students as they prepare for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival … and, even better, follow them while they’re in Scotland at the Fringe! You can read OakTechRep member Naomi Zingman-Daniels and other students on the CalShakes blog: just go to http://calshakes.blogspot.com/search?q=oaktechrep, or go to http://calshakes.blogspot.com and enter “oaktechrep” in the search box.

Tech Drama Student Wins Beach Blanket Babylon Scholarship

Marcus Thompson

Marcus Thompson

The Oakland Tech Drama Department is thrilled to announce that Marcus Thompson, who played H in “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” and Count Orsino in “Twelfth Night” during the 2009-2010 school year, is the 2010 recipient of the Steve Silver Foundation & Beach Blanket Babylon Scholarship for the Arts in the Acting Category.  Marcus performed a monologue from Blood in the Brain in the scholarship competition, which draws students from all over the Bay Area in dance, voice and acting.  One winner in each category is granted a scholarship of $10,000 toward his or her college education.

Congratulations, Marcus!

Advanced Drama Performs Stunning “Hamlet” at CalShakes

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The cold and wind took nothing away from the magic as Oakland Tech’s Advanced Drama class performed “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” at the California Shakespeare Theater’s fabulous Bruns Amphitheater on July 26, 2010 – their first performance on a professional stage, before a public audience, and their last performance in California before taking the show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Every seat was full, with an audience of mostly CalShakes subscribers.  One such subscriber wrote afterward that the evening was a “jewelled moment”: “The cold and wind did not matter. We were totally focussed on the superlative actors who dominated the stage …”

“Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” was the inaugural project of CalShakes’ New Works/New Communities program in the 1980s.  Tech’s drama department has been tremendously fortunate to be able to work with CalShakes during the 2009-2010 school year; among other things, the “Hamlet” cast has had the amazing opportunity to receive coaching from the director and major actors from the original production.  Donations from the July 26 performance will support CalShakes residencies at Tech during the 2010-2011 school year.

P.S. You can keep up with the Tech students while they’re at the Fringe Festival by reading their posts on the CalShakes blog!  Check it out!

all-point-guns-at-hO and L1g-at-the-funeral-home

Beginning Drama Presents “Script Frenzy”

The Beginning Drama Class presented “Script Frenzy,” an end-of-year performance of short plays written and performed by students.  By turns moving, funny and inventive, the plays showed how far these beginning actors had come as actors and playwrights.  Many of the students have expressed interest in continuing in Advanced Drama and even in Tech’s new Performing Arts Academy.

9th Grade English/Drama Performance

The Ninth Grade English/Drama class presented scenes from John Steinbeck’s “Pastures of Heaven,” adapted by Octavio Solis.  Students worked with resident artists from CalShakes as part of the Tech-CalShakes collaboration.

The transformation between the beginning of the year and this production was amazing: parents could not believe how much their children had come out of their shells to perform self-confidently.  One student who began the year literally unable to talk in class took a significant role in the performance and shone!

Almost all of the students from this class plan on continuing in Advanced Drama next year.

Beginning Drama class presents “Script Frenzy” showcase May 27

The Beginning Drama Class presented “Script Frenzy,” an end-of-year performance of short plays written and performed by students.  By turns moving, funny and inventive, the plays showed how far these beginning actors had come as actors and playwrights.  Many of the students have expressed interest in continuing in Advanced Drama and even in Tech’s new Performing Arts Academy.

When: Thursday, May 27th, 6pm

Where: in the Tech Auditorium, 42nd Street at Broadway
Admission: FREE!

After-School Beginning Drama Performance May 25, 2010

You are invited to the Period 7 Beginning Drama presentation

BAD HABITS
an original drama about addiction and hope for a better world
based on a script by class member Tashi Guerra
woven together with writing by the rest of the class

This is a soul-searching play about the hard, important, too topical subject of drug addiction.  Talking about hard subjects, and performing the behavior that goes with them, doesn’t mean you are approving them – but it does mean that you are exposing hard truths and challenging yourselves and your audience to look at them.  For more thoughts on this subject, please read Opera Piccola Director Susannah Wood’s blog.
Date: Tuesday, May 25
Time: 6:30 pm
Place: Oakland Tech Auditorium, 42nd Street at Broadway
Cost: $5 (no one turned away for lack of funds)

KTVU Covers Advanced Drama Department’s Fringe Festival Plans

Who says there’s no good news in Oakland?  KTVU-TV (Channel 2) presented a fantastic, upbeat story about the Advanced Drama Department’s production of “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” and the students’ plans to present the play at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August 2010.

See the KTVU video

Find out more about the Advanced Drama Department’s plans to go to the Fringe Festival

Oakland Tribune Promotes Tech Production of “Hamlet”

The Oakland Tribune featured the Tech Advanced Drama Department’s production of “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” in a terrific online article by Sean Maher on March 30.  The article discusses the performance at Piedmont High School, Tech’s triumph at the American High School Theater Festival, and the efforts to bring the performance, and the Advanced Drama students, to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August 2010.

Advanced Drama Class performs Hamlet: Blood in the Brain at Piedmont High, 3/31

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On March 31, 2010, the drama department and the Diversity Committee of Piedmont High School sponsored a performance of the Advanced Drama Department’s “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain.”

It was a fabulous evening all around.  The Piedmont drama department and parents were extraordinarily warm and generous hosts, providing their beautiful theater, excellent publicity and generous donations, and encouraging their community to donate to the students’ trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.  A particular highlight was the appeal for donations by the members of the Piedmont Middle School Shakespeare Club – in Shakespearean language!

Tech’s students rose to the occasion, giving the full house a superb performance which the audience received with extended shouts and cheers.  The cast stayed after the play for a “talk-back” with audience members, including Piedmont High drama students.

Tech is grateful to Piedmont High for its generosity and thrilled to have established this new collaboration with our neighbors.  We look forward to more joint efforts in the future!

Drama Students’ Field Trip to ACT

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In March, 2010, Tech’s drama students took a field trip to San Francisco’s American Conservatory Theatre to see a performance of Berthold Brecht’s The Caucasian Chalk Circle – the same play that Tech’s Advanced Drama Department had performed the previous year!

Advanced Drama Presents Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night”

twelfth-night-emailGender-bending, confused identities, fools and noblemen, lost twins, lost love, found love … it’s all in Shakespeare’s most delightful comedy, “Twelfth Night.”

This delightful production, performed April 21-24, 2010, marked the first time Tech performed Shakespeare in the original language, although – in the grand tradition of Shakespeare performances worldwide – the time and setting were a bit closer than Renaissance England.

To help the audience understand the complicated plot and unfamiliar language, the performance was preceded by a “Green Show” – a short, extremely funny modern-language synopsis written and directed by one of the actors.  In addition, groups of actors from the play visited some of Tech’s history and English classes to present similar synopses that they had written and directed, guided by mentors from the California Shakespeare Theater.

“Twelfth Night” was directed by longtime Tech production manager Scott Marden, to whom Tech and the Drama Department bid a fond and sad farewell.  Scott is going off to seek his fortune in Southern California.  We wish him much luck – but we’ll miss him!

Field Trip to “Caucasian Chalk Circle”

Drama department field trip to the acclaimed American Conservatory Theater’s production of the Bertold Brecht play that Tech performed in the 2008-09 academic year.

Drama students perform at Oakland Art Murmur

On Friday, March 5, two groups of Tech drama students performed as part of Oakland’s Art Murmur, the art gallery and performing art event that takes place the first Friday evening of each month.

Students from Tech’s Advanced Drama Department performed an excerpt from “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” at the 21 Grand Art Gallery, and impressed the crowd with their description of their planned trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

And, Opera Piccola’s students performed at 416 25th Street, in an original piece they wrote called “Heroes R” – created especially for this event!

Stanford University Hosts Advanced Drama

Tech’s Advanced Drama class participated in a one-day residency at Stanford University on February 24, 2010, performing “Hamlet: Blood in the Brain” in an intimate, 100-seat theater and taking a tour of the campus and admissions office.

Cal Shakes at Oakland Tech

Oakland Technical High School’s Advanced Drama Department and the California Shakespeare Theater announce a very special collaboration!

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Hamlet: Blood in the Brain

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Hamlet: Blood in the Brain

“Hamlet: Blood in the Brain,” by local acclaimed playwright Naomi Iizuka, is a unique re-telling of Shakespeare’s classic tale of murder, scandal, and intrigue. Set in Oakland in 1989, the play features modern language and contemporary settings that are still vibrant today.

We have rated this production “PG-13″ for violence, mild language, and drug references. (Shakespeare’s original works are equally mature in content). This show is intended for high-school aged students and older.

Thank you for Donating to Performing Arts’ Fringe Festival Trip

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From "Hamlet: Blood in the Brain"

We did it!  Oakland Tech’s Advanced Drama students have raised the money to perform at the 2010 Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland.  We are so very grateful to everyone who contributed in any way – we could not have completed this enormous fundraising effort without you.

Preparing for the Fringe Festival has already begun to open up new worlds for these young performers. Some will be going to college next year to study theater; some have taken after-school jobs to raise money for this trip; some are looking forward to their first-ever airplane ride. For all of them, performing in the Fringe Festival will be once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tech’s students are looking forward to bringing Oakland pride to the Fringe Festival: to telling the world that Oakland is a place where the arts flourish and where kids can grow up to learn, perform, grow and follow their dreams.

During the course of the 2009-2010 school year, we have met so many generous people who decided to help make these students’ dreams come true.  Some of you donated money, others time, others skills or emotional support.  We cannot thank you enough.

Please follow our students as they prepare for and perform at at the Fringe Festival.  They’ll be reporting on the California Shakespeare Theater’s blog, http://calshakes.blogspot.com/

9th Grade Drama Showcase

Oakland Inside Out

This play was created by the Advanced Drama Class at Oakland Tech based on interviews with peers, elders and leaders in Oakland.

“Oakland:Inside Out” has also earned the students the honor of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, 2010 as winners of the American High School Theatre Festival Award.

Oakland: Inside Out from Michael Coleman on Vimeo.