Middle School Arts

The middle school fine arts program is integrated into student schedules four times a week as an elective choice. Students are exposed to a wide variety of artistic practices such as painting, drawing, acting, singing, dancing, creative writing, chorus, sculpture, set design, mixed media, photography and graphic design, among others.

The philosophy of the middle school arts and electives program is that 10-14 year-old students should be exposed to a diverse range of artistic experiences. This gives them an appreciation of the world around them while acquiring creative problem-solving skills. The arts department believes that artistic endeavors and exploration translates into the academic classroom and into life, by supporting the overall growth of the Parker middle school student.

Outside of the classroom curriculum, Parker middle schoolers are also able to participate in our grade 6-12 after-school performing arts program, Dramatiques. A fall play and a spring musical production are put on each year. Students can take part both on stage and off, with lighting, set design, stage management, costume design and other support roles offered to actors and non-actors alike.

Performing Arts Department

The Parker School Performing Arts Program includes elective classes, student clubs, and our after-school program, Dramatiques. We seek to develop creative, intelligent, and compassionate artist-scholars. Through the study of various disciplines (including acting, dance, chorus, musical theatre, dramaturgy, technical theatre, and theatre management, our program strives to:

  • nurture creativity at various levels of participation in course electives and extracurricular productions in order to prepare students for college majors and professions and to foster a life-long appreciation of the cultural and performing arts
  • challenge and inspire our students towards excellence through learning experiences that develop aesthetic and critical skills as well as foster respect, joy, collaboration, leadership, socialization, and intercultural communication through the arts
  • entertain, reflect and serve our school, community, and island `ohana by presenting public performances inclusive of classic and contemporary plays, original student work, and art forms rooted in and connected to the culture of Hawai`i

Parker School Theatre

The historic Parker School Theatre primarily serves as the learning center of our performing arts classes and productions, as well as a gathering place for our school’s events and meetings. Our theatre also functions as a unique community venue shared by visiting presenters such as performing groups, theatre companies, film festivals, and non-profit organizations.

Dramatiques

Students in grades six through twelve are eligible to join Parker’s after school drama club, Dramatiques, for course credit. Auditions are held for the fall play and spring musical, and students may get involved both onstage and behind the scenes as stage managers, costumers, make-up artists, assistant directors, choreographers, lighting designers/technicians, props managers, program designers, and house managers.

Chorus

The Parker School chorus is an after-school club available to students in grades four through six. Our chorus meets once each week and focuses on creating a variety of singing opportunities. We employ a student-centered approach to learning where students are encouraged to take leadership roles. The chorus works both as a whole ensemble and in small groups to sing a wide variety of choral music. Students learn the elements of music, proper vocal techniques, beginning music reading skills, unison singing, and two-part harmony. The overall goal is to provide a positive musical experience through community building and group work leading to performance and reflection.