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Collins Hill High School Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
Collins Hill High School
Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
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Updated: 6/21/2017
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Collins Hill High School Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
Table of Contents
A Message from our Theatre Director............................................................................................................................. 3
CHHS Theatre Classes ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
Co-Curricular Requirements ............................................................................................................................................... 4
Are Your Absences Excused?............................................................................................................................................ 4
Theatre Etiquette – Be your best! .................................................................................................................................... 5
Rehearsal Expectations ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
Three-strike Rule ................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Theatre Curriculum Enrichment Fee ............................................................................................................................... 7
Financial Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8
CHHS Theatre Shows ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Sponsorships ........................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Program Ads ............................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Theatre Fundraisers ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
We Rely On Our Volunteers – Please Help ................................................................................................................... 10
Drama Club (Collins Hill Theatre Company) ................................................................................................................ 11
Tech Crew .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11
International Thespian Society & Thespian Points .................................................................................................. 11
Student Officers ................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Staying Connected With CHHS Theatre ....................................................................................................................... 12
Theatre Conferences .......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Georgia Thespians Conference (ThesCon) ......................................................................................................................... 12
International Thespian Festival (ThesFest) ....................................................................................................................... 13
Georgia Theatre Conference (GTC) Convention .............................................................................................................. 13
Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) Convention ................................................................................................ 13
Theatre Competitions ........................................................................................................................................................ 14
GHSA One-Act and Literary ........................................................................................................................................................ 14
Governors Honors Program ........................................................................................................................................................ 14
Biographies & Headshots ................................................................................................................................................. 15
Spirit Wear ............................................................................................................................................................................. 15
End of Year Banquet/Awards ........................................................................................................................................... 15
Booster Club Officers ......................................................................................................................................................... 16
Forms & Updates ................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Note: This handbook was created by the Collins Hill High School Drama Booster Club. It is intended to provide information about the CHHS
Theatre program. Schedules, fees and procedures may change at any time and, therefore, the handbook is subject to change. The Booster
Club will make every effort to keep this handbook up to date, but cannot guarantee complete accuracy.
Updated: 6/21/2017
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Collins Hill High School Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
A Message from our Theatre Director
Dear Collins Hill Theatre Family,
Welcome to the 2016-2017 school year and theatre season! As we all know, the arts serve an extremely
important purpose in our schools, helping our youth to become out-of-the-box thinkers, problem solvers, and team
players, while building self-esteem and confidence.
With passion, exploration, and innovative thinking, great art has the unique power to affect change in the world. In
the classroom, I challenge my students to take great risks, creating theatre that they can be proud of and believe
in. In order to create bold and brave artists, I consistently stress that the unknown is not something to fear, but to
celebrate. Taking risks allows us to stray from the status quo and create innovative work.
As a teacher, I feel that I have a personal investment in each of my students, and in order to support their growth,
I must always be sensitive to their individual needs while keeping the quality of their artistry intact.
Like all art, theatre is constantly changing, and as artists, we must be able to change with it. My wish is for my
students to become part of a generation of confident and innovative thinkers with an ability to follow their instincts
in an ever-changing art form.
There is nothing more important in the theatre than teamwork, and with teamwork comes support! That is where
YOU come in! Collins Hill High School takes pride in offering an incredible performing arts experience to every
student in our program. While we are fortunate that Gwinnett County holds the arts in high regard as an academic
subject, the reality is that the financial investment to build and maintain the level of excellence in Collins Hill High
School’s Theatre Program is great. Because of these crucial costs, we request that each student who
participates in an upper-level theatre class (Technical Theatre, Acting II, Advanced Drama I, Advanced Drama II
and Musical Theatre) at Collins Hill provides a Curriculum Enrichment Fee. Without the collection of this vital
fee, our program cannot provide the high-quality training and productions these gifted students deserve.
Like our young artists, we need to work as a team and be supportive. We truly depend on each of you to
contribute this semester’s fee by 9/2/2016. Please make checks payable to CHHS Drama Booster Club.
Please use this handbook as a guide to become a valuable and knowledgeable member of the CHHS Drama
Program. This is going to be a fantastic year and I cannot wait to get started!
Sincerely,
Tara Weintraub
Theatre Director
Collins Hill High School
CHHS Theatre Classes
Collins Hill High School offers a wide range of performance and non-performance theatre classes. These classes
are designed for beginner through advanced performers as well as those who prefer to work behind the scenes.
This year, the CHHS theatre program was expanded to include a new Advanced Acting class. This unique class
couples beginner actors with our advanced acting students to develop both performing and directing skills. We
also continue to have two advanced performance classes: Musical Theatre and Acting II. Enrollment in the
advanced classes requires an audition and subsequent selection from the Theatre Director. Our spring play and
musical are casted from our advanced classes. The Advanced Acting class has assumed responsibility for the
student-directed performances.
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Collins Hill High School Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
CHHS 2016-17 Theatre Classes
 1st period – Technical Theatre
 2nd period – Acting II*
 3rd period – Advanced Drama I and II*
*Audition required


4th period – Acting I*
6th period – Musical Theatre*
Co-Curricular Requirements
Per GCPS policy, performance-based classes are “co-curricular classes which require out-of-class activities as
stipulated by the teacher, and will determine a portion of the student’s grade. This includes concerts
[performances] and rehearsals.”
CHHS Acting II, Musical Theatre and Advanced Acting classes are co-curricular. In addition to classroom
activities, certain out-of-class rehearsals and performances are required and, therefore, part of the student’s
assessment. The CHHS Theatre Director will notify the students of all co-curricular/required activities in advance.
If a student misses a required rehearsal or performance and the absence is excused, the grade must be made up
or the student will receive a zero. Unexcused absences may not be made up.
Are Your Absences Excused?
Performances are for you, our students. You are the focus of the performance. You are the one being educated.
You are the purpose of the performance and rehearsal. If you miss a performance or required rehearsal, it’s like
missing a test or project in an academic class.
Your Director will always try to work with you to ensure you can take advantage of every theatre opportunity.
There are times, however, when your attendance is required. Without your attendance, the show, your
performance and your classmates will suffer. In those instances, only certain absences are excused.
To be allowed the opportunity to make up your grade, you must determine if your absence meets the eligibility to
be excused. Then, you must make up your grade.
Eligibility for excused absences
To be eligible for an excused absence, you must first bring a note to the Theatre Director from your parent or
guardian explaining your absence. This is so eligibility can be confirmed. The note must be turned in within two
school days of your return to school after the missed rehearsal or performance or at least one month before any
known/pre-planned absence.
Examples of EXCUSED absences
 Death in the immediate family.
 Illness of the student verified by a doctor’s note. Turn a copy of the doctor’s note in to the Theatre Director.
 A family emergency, such as a sudden illness of parent or sibling, verified by a note from your parent or
guardian.
 A one-time special family activity such as a wedding, confirmation, graduation, etc. These absences require at
least one month advance notice and approval from the Theatre Director.
 Another conflicting school activity. Report these conflicts to the Theatre Director at least one month in
advance. Students should not try to figure out these conflicts on their own. Your Director, the teachers,
coaches and sponsors will do their best to resolve these conflicts.
 Another conflicting theatre performance. Requires advance approval from the Theatre Director and must be
communicated before a performance is casted.
If your absence is excused, the Theatre Director will tell you what make-up work is required and when it is due.
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Collins Hill High School Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
Examples of UNEXCUSED Absences
 Babysitting
 Transportation problems
 Forgetting
 Too much homework
Unexcused absences may not be made up. You will receive a zero for that required rehearsal or performance.
Plenty of notice will be given for any co-curricular/required activities, so students may plan accordingly.
Theatre Etiquette – Be your best!
Although theatre programs tend to be less formal than other subjects, students are expected to display proper
theatre etiquette during class, rehearsals and performances.
Your behavior may affect:
 Your grade
 Your ability to obtain or keep a part or position (such as student officer, lead tech role, or class
representative)
 Your ability to attend theatre conferences
 In severe cases, your ability to remain in the theatre program
At a minimum, you are expected to:
 Show respect to everyone and everything in the theatre and backstage at all times. When respect is
shown (between teachers, students and property) theatre will be a happy and positive learning environment.
 Not use your cellphone during class unless given permission. Gwinnett County policy prohibits the use
of any personal electronic communication devices by any student during instruction unless approved by your
teacher. Students using their cellphone during instruction without permission may find this reflected in their
grades.
 Dispose of anything in your mouth when you enter the theatre. Please don’t eat food or chew gum in the
theatre. Clear, flavor-free water is allowed, but please obtain these drinks before class starts.
 Take a seat before the bell rings so roll can be taken and class can begin on time.
 Always participate to the best of your ability – you will be graded on your participation.
 Show respect to your Director and other students by listening and not engaging in side conversations,
unneeded commentary or spontaneous ad hoc performances.
 Please visit the restroom and water fountain before class out of respect for rehearsals and instructional
time. If you need to be excused, you may seek permission from the Theatre Director. Only one student may
leave at a time.
 Wear the proper clothing for whatever activity is occurring in your class. There may be times when
rehearsal or set construction will require you to wear clothing or shoes that you can move/dance in or
build/paint in.
 Help us with your costuming. You may be asked to bring articles of clothing from home for costuming.
When that happens, please bring the item(s) in by the date requested and leave the item(s) with your
costume until the show closes.
 Take care of all theatre property (sets, costumes, props, building materials/tools) and always return
them to their proper place when done. Our tools, set materials, props and costumes must last so they can
be used over and over again. In addition, we may also rent or borrow props, sets, and costume pieces for
some shows. Please use these items carefully and always put them back properly when you’re done. This
includes taking care of your personal hygiene/wearing deodorant when using costumes, and ensuring
costume pieces are hung up when not in use.
 Keep the dressing rooms, backstage area and costume/prop closet clean and free of trash and personal
belongings. Never leave costume pieces on the floor. Always return tools, props or costumes to their proper
place.
 Not being in the theatre or back stage areas without permission or when you are not supposed to be.
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Rehearsal Expectations
Being cast or assigned a tech role in a production is exciting and great way to demonstrate your talents.
Rehearsals not only help you sharpen those talents, but ensure the show reflects well on you, your class and your
school. So, whether rehearsals are held during class, after school or on weekends, please use this time wisely.
 Arrive on time and be ready to go when the rehearsal starts.
 Listen to your director or coaches and don’t disrupt the progress of the rehearsals.
 Attend all rehearsals as scheduled. If you must be out, no more than two unexcused absences are
allowed. No unexcused absences are allowed in the final two weeks before a production.
 Tell your director about and obtain approval on all known absences (or late arrivals/early departures)
ahead of time, so rehearsals can be adjusted or substitutes found.
 Keep your grades up – you will not be excused from mandatory rehearsals due to homework, studying
or last-minute tutoring.
 Write your name on your script and bring it to all rehearsals.
 Learn your lines early and go ‘off book’ when the director tells you to. Acting is more than just saying
your lines. Going off script allows you to add characterization and personality to your part and hone
interactions with other performers. You can’t do that if you’re reading from a script.
 When participating in tech, learn the play or musical before technical rehearsals begin.
 Learn all blocking as you learn your lines.
 Learn and practice all songs. Run through them at home or with others. Seek vocal coaching as needed.
 Learn and practice all dances. As with any type of acting, put the appropriate energy and personality into
your dance numbers.
 Bring a book or quiet activity for rehearsal ‘downtime.’
 Be cooperative with costuming and wear the pieces selected. Take good care of your costume as it’s
assembled – keep all pieces together, clean and hung. Wear deodorant to ensure your costume stays
fresh through rehearsals and until the close of the show.
 Ensure you have all your props before each rehearsal and return them to the prop table at the end of
rehearsal.
 While on campus, including weekends and evenings, follow the CHHS code of conduct and proper
theatre etiquette.
Note: Although some rehearsals for productions put on by the Musical Theatre, Acting II and Advanced Acting classes occur
during class, they will also be scheduled after school and possibly on weekends. Rehearsals for the One-Act competition play
are held after school and on weekends. The director will always do everything she can to ensure only those actors being
rehearsed will be called during afterschool rehearsals.
Three-strike Rule
Our time is so limited and precious during the school year, that we need every student to be focused and
behaving appropriately so we can meet our class and performance objectives. Most students are. But those that
aren’t, not only impact the students around them, but the overall quality of the program itself.
This year we’re employing a three-strike rule to encourage proper behavior during theatre classes, rehearsals,
performances and external events. Students who blatantly disregard either our Theatre Etiquette or Rehearsal
Expectations (the previous two sections) will receive a strike for each infraction.
After three strikes, students will become ineligible for the remainder of that semester, for:
 Receiving or keeping lead cast or tech roles
 Attending external theatre events (such as the Thespian Conference)
 Keeping student leadership positions (such as student officer or junior cabinet)
Strike violations may also have a direct impact on the student’s class grade.
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Theatre Curriculum Enrichment Fee
We’re fortunate that our county and school administrators hold the arts in high regard. But the reality is that our
program is self-funded. Aside from some class expenses, CHHS Theatre must cover most of our costs ourselves.
And, the financial investment to maintain and grow is high.
The costs to produce shows include:
Other important expenses include:

Show rights and scripts

Headshots & Photography – for shows as well as
competitions and auditions

Sets – built, painted, rented, repaired

Theatre lighting and sound system maintenance
and repair

Costumes - bought, rented, altered, cleaned

Musical direction

Props – bought, rented, modified, repaired

Theatre society memberships

Sound/lighting – special show requirements

Theatre supplies and office equipment

Musical scores and accompanists

Conferences

Makeup, hair/wigs, dressing room supplies

Banquets

Publicity – programs, posters, road signs, other ads

Choreography and dance/movement instruction

Concession & Tickets – flowers, candy, popcorn
and supplies

Drama club and thespian society expenses

Choreography – specific to a show

Scholarships (as funds permit)
Because of these crucial costs, all Theatre students are asked to pay a Curriculum Enrichment Fee. Without this
vital fee, our program cannot provide the high-quality training and productions our students deserve.
2016-17 Curriculum Enrichment Fees by class
Class*
Fees
Half Due
Balance Due
Acting I
$50/year
9/2/2016
10/3/2016
Technical Theatre
$50/year
9/2/2016
10/3/2016
Advanced Acting
$50/year
9/2/2016
10/3/2016
Musical Theatre
$100/year
9/2/2016
10/3/2016
Acting II
$100/year
9/2/2016
10/3/2016
One-Act competition play cast**
$75 for the show
Balance is due when you accept a part
*Students participating in more than one CHHS Theatre class are only required to pay the larger of the two
membership fees (e.g., if attending both Technical Theatre and Musical Theatre, the student must only pay the
$100 Musical Theatre fee).
**Students enrolled in a CHHS Theatre class who are also selected to the cast of the One-Act competition play
must also pay the $75 fee for that show.
Except for a slight increase with the one-act competition show and the creation of fees for our new Advanced
Acting class, our fees have not changed from last year. These fees are comparable to and in most cases, less
than other than area schools.
Each student receives a CHHS Theatre t-shirt and the ability to attend CHHS Theatre-sponsored field trips with
the payment of their fee.
Fees may be paid by cash, check or credit card. Credit card payments are only accepted in person at a CHHS
Theatre event and will include an additional 2.75% Square processing fee. Make checks payable to CHHS Drama
Booster Club. When sending a cash or check payment into the school with your student, please seal it in an
envelope with the student’s name. NOTE: These fees cannot be paid with MyPaymentsPlus.
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Collins Hill High School Theatre
2016-17 Student Handbook
Contact the Theatre Director or the CHHS Drama Booster club, at [email protected], if you have
specific questions about CHHS Theatre fees.
Financial Policy
The Collins Hill Booster Club is not a money-making organization. All of the funds collected are designed to
specifically cover the cost of the program and its performances. The Curriculum Enrichment Fees facilitate a rich
theatre program, quality productions and an outstanding student experience. The Booster Club manages the
funds wisely and if a surplus is encountered, they will waive certain fees later in the year (e.g., for the end of year
banquet) or offer student scholarships.
Please note, however, that no student will be denied participation in the theatre program because of
financial inability to pay their fees. A family in this situation should contact the CHHS Drama Boosters (at
[email protected]) to make arrangements to discuss this confidentially.
The Booster Club will work with the family to restructure the payment arrangements. These arrangements must
be made before the first payment is due or as soon as the hardship arises. Families are encouraged to create
structured payment plans as needed.
CHHS Theatre Shows
CHHS Theatre is proud to produce a wide variety of shows throughout the year to showcase your talent. Some of
these shows are also graded assignments.
CHHS will produce the following shows in the 2016-17 school year:

October – One-Act GHSA Competition Play (from school-wide open auditions)

November – Acting II and Musical Theatre showcases

January – Talent Show fundraiser Collins Hill’s Got Talent (from school-wide open auditions)

March – Full-Length Play (Acting II class)

April – Full-Length Musical (Musical Theatre class)

May - Student Directed performances (Advanced Drama class)
See the CHHS Theatre Calendar on the CHHS Theatre website at http://chhstheatre.weebly.com for more
information.
CHHS shows are general admission. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. They are sold at the door.
Sponsorships
Purchasing a Collins Hill High School Theatre Sponsorship is the best way to support our program. And, it gives
you the most for your contribution. Sponsorships can be purchased by individuals, families or businesses,
whether you are in CHHS theatre or not.
This year, we expanded our sponsorships to four levels:
Levels
What your sponsorship buys
Price
Platinum
Five season tickets, recognition in all programs as a Platinum patron, one full-page ad
in two professionally produced show programs
$500
Gold
Three season tickets, recognition in all programs as a Gold patron, one full-page ad in
one professionally produced show program or two half-page ads in two professionally
produced programs
$300
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2016-17 Student Handbook
Silver
Two season tickets, recognition in all programs as a Silver patron, one half-page ad in
one professionally produced show program or two quarter-age ads in two professionally
produced programs
$200
Bronze
One season ticket, recognition in all programs as a Bronze patron, one quarter-page ad
in one professionally produced program
$100
Sponsorships can reduce your Curriculum Enrichment Fee
Purchasing or selling sponsorships by the due date will reduce your fees. Your Curriculum Enrichment Fee will be
reduced by the price of the sponsorship. For example, if you are an Acting II student enrolled in both semesters
your fee is $100. If, however, you sell a Bronze Sponsorship (worth $100) to a local business or even to your
family before the due date, your fee is reduced to $0.
The due date for purchasing 2016-17 Sponsorships is October 3, 2016. You must purchase or sell the
Sponsorship by that date to offset your fees. We cannot refund or retroactively reduce fees.
Program Ads
CHHS Theatre produces programs for each show. For our major shows (such as the full-length play and musical),
our 5.5”x8.5” programs are professionally produced and include ads.
Ads can be purchased by students and their families or sold to area businesses. Purchasing ads in our
professionally-produced show programs are a great way to support our program, spotlight a student or advertise
your company.
2016-17 Program Ads
Type
Can include
Size
Cost/Show
Full-page ad
Text, graphics, pictures
1350 pixels wide x 2250 pixels long
$100
Half-page ad
Quarter-page ad
Text, graphics, pictures
Text, graphics, pictures
1350 pixels wide x 1125 pixels long
1350 pixels wide x 560 pixels long or
640 pixels wide x 1125 pixels long
$50
$25
Shout-Out
Text only
100 characters maximum
$10
Program ads can also reduce your Curriculum Enrichment Fees. As with Sponsorships, the cost of any ads
paid for by October 3, 2016 will be applied to offset your 2016-17 curriculum enrichment fees. Ads received after
that date will not be applied.
The due date for using Program Ads to offset your Curriculum Enrichment Fee is October 3, 2016. You
must purchase or sell an ad by that date to offset your fee. Otherwise, program ads are due 30 days before that
show.
Theatre Fundraisers
The CHHS Drama Booster club also raises money to support the Theatre program and keep student’s fees low.
This year we added several new fundraisers.
Talent Show
CHHS Theatre sponsors Collins Hill’s Got Talent, the annual, school-wide talent show. Any Collins Hill student in
good standing may audition for the show. Auditions are held approximately one month before the show by the
Theatre Director. Twelve to fourteen of Collins Hill’s top talent acts are selected, thereby keeping the show to two
hours, including a 15 minute intermission. Tickets are $5 and sold at the door.
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Talent show contestants compete for prizes. Winners are selected by a panel of judges from the school and the
local entertainment industry.
Participants can also earn a special Audience Favorite award, whereby members of the audience vote for their
favorite by placing money in buckets corresponding to the acts. The act earning the most donations wins the
Audience Favorite award.
Concession, flower and candy-gram sales
CHHS Theatre sells concession (snacks, candy, popcorn, drinks) at all shows. We also sell flowers and candygrams – which can be purchased for delivery to the show’s cast and crew – at most Theatre events. CHHS
Theatre also sells tickets to our shows, but those proceeds go to the school; not directly to the Theatre program.
Simply Sheets sales
In 2015-16 CHHS Theatre hosted their first Simply Sheets sale bedding sale. Students high-quality, reasonably
priced microfiber sheets and pillow cases, the proceeds of which benefited the theatre program. We are pursuing
this fundraiser again in 2016-17.
Valentine Telegrams
Also new in 2015-16, CHHS Theatre students sold singing and poetic telegrams to fellow students for delivery
(with a personalized Valentine note and candy-gram) during the week of Valentine’s day (at advisement) for $5.
The proceeds benefited the program and the performances helped to promote CHHS Theatre. We are pursuing
this fundraiser again in 2016-17.
Drama On The Hill! Summer Camp
CHHS Theatre hosted our first one-day theatre camp for elementary and middle school students this past
summer at 12Stone Church. Campers learned about four different aspects of theatre – slating/acting on camera,
theatre dance, theatre costume/set design and improvisation – in workshops taught by CHHS Theatre students,
alumni and teachers. Not only did our program benefit financially from the camp, but the camp helped to promote
CHHS Theatre within our community and gave our students experience and volunteer hours as teachers and
camp counselors. We plan to hold the camp each summer.
Mini-Fundraisers – Bruster’s Scoop Nights, ChickFilA Nights, Publix Swipe cards
We receive a portion of sales (coupons and food or merchandise) at these designated fundraising nights or
through our Publix swipe cards.
Watch for additional fundraisers, which may include Busters’ and Chick Fil A nights, in 2016-17.
We Rely On Our Volunteers – Please Help
The CHHS Theatre program cannot function without the generous support of its volunteers. The Drama Booster
officers are a small group who work with the Theatre Director to organize, manage and communicate the various
program activities and to manage the club funds. Volunteers are needed to assist with the many other tasks
necessary to produce our shows. Some volunteer opportunities include:
Ticket Sales (at the
shows)
Program Designer
Audio/Lighting Mentors
Photographer
Costume Assistants and
Seamstresses
Backstage Assistants
(during some shows)
Hair or Makeup Assistants
(during some shows)
Ushers (at all shows)
Flower and Candy Sales
(at the shows)
Building Sets or Set
Pieces
Concession Sales (at the
shows)
Fundraiser and Banquet
Coordinators
Electronic signup sheets are provided before each show to help staff show-related volunteer positions. Thank you
to those who have helped in the past and to those who are planning to do so in the future.
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If you can help with or have a special talent for any volunteer opportunity, please contact the CHHS
Booster Club at [email protected]. We would really appreciate the help!
Drama Club (Collins Hill Theatre Company)
The Collins Hill Theatre Company (drama club) is open to all CHHS students interested in learning more about
theatre and spending time with fellow thespians. The club meets after school (2:30-3:30) approximately once a
month in the Collins Hill High School theatre. The meetings are run by the Thespian President or Vice President.
The meeting agenda is normally set at the beginning of the school year and may include: improv or other areas of
acting, theatrical makeup, theatre dance, stage management and tech, characterization, vocal preparation,
parties and more. Local theatre professionals often attend as special guest speakers or instructors. Visit our
website at www.chhstheatre.weebly.com and click on the CH Theatre Co page to learn more.
The annual Collins Hill Theatre Company dues, which fund Club activities and social events, are $20.
Tech Crew
It has been said, “A production is only as good as its crew.” As with any theatrical performance, a technical crew
is required for every CHHS production. Tech crews help build sets and assemble props, run lights and sound, and
manage all back and onstage work during the shows. They are key to any successful performance.
Most of CHHS crew functions are performed by our Technical Theatre class. Technical Theatre is a great way to
learn more about the various aspects of theater and to participate in productions if performing is not your thing.
But, we also welcome crew assistance from any CHHS Theatre classes. The Theatre Director or Technical
Officers will let the Theatre classes know what crew opportunities are available for each show. You can also make
your interests known. We always appreciate help, and performing crew functions does help you to earn
International Thespian Society points.
Keep in mind, however, once assigned to a crew, you are expected to attend required rehearsals and abide by
Rehearsal Expectations.
International Thespian Society & Thespian Points
CHHS Theatre is a member of the International Thespian Society (ITS); troupe 5364. The International Thespian
society (ITS) is the honor society for middle and high school theatre students. Membership is granted for the
performance of meritorious work in theatre arts that meets the Society’s general guidelines.
CHHS Theatre students can be inducted into our ITS troupe after earning 10 Thespian Points – the equivalent of
100 hours working in school, community, and/or professional theater both on and behind the stage. From there,
students can continue to earn points for their theatrical work and be recognized through ITS honor rankings.
ITS is the point system by which theatrical accomplishment is measured at CHHS. Students accumulating 60 or
more Thespian Points are eligible for a CHHS Theatre Letter. CHHS students track their points using a tracking
sheet found under Forms on the CHHS Theatre website at http://chhstheatre.weebly.com.
You can find more information about the International Thespian Society and the Thespian Point System on the
CHHS Theatre website at http://chhstheatre.weebly.com or by visiting the ITS website at
www.schooltheatre.org/its.
Student Officers
Each May students are elected to the CHHS Thespian Society Student Officer positions for the next school year.
These students run certain program activities (such as Drama Club and fundraisers) and help the Theatre
Director and Booster Club run the theatre program.
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The 2016-17 Student Officers
 President – Julia Whitten
 Vice President – Olivia Eafano
 Secretary – Noelle McIntyre
 Fundraising – Spencer Ross
2016-17 Student Handbook
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Treasurer/Activities – Tabitha Krambier
Social Media Publicity – Derrian Brown
Written Publicity – Madeline Demos
Tech/Stage Management – Ethan Spruill & Chad Abercrombie
In addition, in 2016-17, we have also created a junior cabinet to increase student involvement and provider
additional leadership opportunities. Junior cabinet members help to improve communications with and represent
the needs of their class.
The 2016-17 Junior Cabinet
 Acting I – Jacob Norman
 Advanced Drama I – Sebastian Bon
 Advanced Drama II – Kylie Johnson
 Technical Theatre – Chad Abercrombie
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Acting II – Haven Seagraves
Musical Theatre – Kylie Johnson
Backstage Management – Celinna Reardon
Staying Connected With CHHS Theatre
There are several ways to get information about or stay connected with CHHS Theatre. Whatever your
preference, CHHS Theatre has an online solution for you:
 Remind 101 – Used to send brief, just-in-time reminders and changes by text. Students are strongly
encouraged to join the group using their cellphone. Parents may also join if they would like to be updated this
way. To join the 2016-17 CHHS Theatre Remind 101 group, text the message @drama1236 to 81010.
 CHHS Website – At www.chhstheatre.weebly.com, this site contains the latest news and information on this
and past year’s shows, cast lists, rehearsal schedules, ThesCon, Drama Club, photos, forms and more. Visit
it regularly for the latest info
 Facebook – Like CHHS Theatre on Facebook at www.facebook.com/collinshilltheatre
 Twitter – Follow CHHS Theatre on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CHHS_Drama_Club
 Instagram – Follow CHHS Theatre on Instagram at https://instagram.com/chhs_theatre/
 You Tube - Subscribe to the Collins Hill HS Theatre YouTube channel at
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCav3lv7-j1KdnXV0wWUBJaQ
 E-mail – CHHS Theatre sends out important, detailed information about our theatre productions and events
via e-mail. Our distribution lists are created from the e-mail information you and your parents provide to the
school and during orientation. If you are not on our distribution lists, e-mail us at [email protected].
Theatre Conferences
Georgia Thespians Conference (ThesCon)
Georgia Thespians is a state chapter of the Education Theatre Association which sponsors the International
Thespian Society (ITS). Georgia Thespians sponsors ThesCon.
ThesCon is a three-day annual event held in February in Columbus, Georgia. It features numerous productions
presented by high schools from across the state. Plus, they offer a variety of workshops led by theater
professionals from around the country. And if that weren't enough, they also hold individual performance and tech
events for adjudication, offer auditions for colleges and scholarships, provide the opportunity to talk to college fine
arts representatives from around the country, allow you to shop with commercial vendors selling theater
merchandise, and hang out with about 3,000 other Georgia Thespians.
Attendance is limited to ITS members (normally sophomores-seniors) in good standing who receive permission
from the Theatre Director to attend. CHHS Theatre normally attends ThesCon as a troupe. Students may audition
to participate in ThesCon events (such as the opening number, Playworks original play competition, tech events
and individual/group events). Troupes can audition to perform one-act shows at the conference.
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The 2017 Georgia Thespian Conference is scheduled for February 9-11, 2016 in Columbus, GA. More
information, including the costs, will be shared by the Theatre Director and posted to the CHHS website at
www.chhstheatre.weebly.com.
For more information, visit the Georgia Thespian Conference website at www.gathespians.org or talk to our
Theatre Director.
International Thespian Festival (ThesFest)
Sponsored by the ITS, ThesFest is a five-day national theatre event, normally held in June in Lincoln Nebraska
(at the University of Nebraska). Like the state conferences, it features numerous high school productions, a
variety of professional workshops, individual and group performances, tech events, auditions and a college and
merchandise fair. It is also limited to ITS members in good standing. Students earning a superior rating at a group
or individual event (IE) at the state conference are invited to perform their IE at the national conference (for
adjudication and a national title). Troupes with state championship shows can petition to perform at ThesFest.
The 2017 International Thespian Festival is scheduled for June 19-24, 2017 in Lincoln, NE at the University of
Nebraska at Lincoln.
CHHS Theatre does not normally attend ThesFest as a troupe, but individual ITS members may attend at their
discretion. For more information, visit the International Thespian Conference website. Contact the Theatre
Director if you’re interested in attending ThesFest.
Georgia Theatre Conference (GTC) Convention
The Georgia Theatre Conference exists to promote theatre throughout Georgia. GTC consists of five theatre
divisions: college and university theatre, community theatre, professional theatre, secondary theatre (high school)
and youth theatre. GTC is the Georgia representative in the SETC.
The mission of GTC is to encourage and coordinate a close relationship among the community, educational, and
professional theatres in the state of Georgia; to aid in the maintaining of the highest possible quality of live
theatre; and to promote and facilitate education in varied phases of the theatre. Membership is open to all
individuals and groups who desire to participate in the work and programs of the Conference.
GTC holds its annual convention in mid October. It includes one-act shows (performed by high schools on a first
come first serve basis), workshops, tech challenges, auditions and keynote speakers.
The 2016 Georgia Theatre Conference Convention is scheduled for October 14 & 15 in Augusta, GA.
CHHS Theatre is not attending GTC as a troupe this year, but students may attend on an individual basis. For
more information visit the GTC website at http://georgiatheatreweb.wixsite.com/gtc-website or the GTC
Facebook page.
Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) Convention
The Southeastern Theatre Conference is a nonprofit theatre organization serving a diverse constituency across
10 states – Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee,
Virginia and West Virginia – in the southeast region of the United States and beyond. Like GTC, SETC serves five
theatre divisions: college and university theatre, community theatre, professional theatre, secondary theatre (high
school) and youth theatre. GTC is Georgia’s entry in the SETC.
The SETC mission is “Connecting You to Opportunities in Theatre.” They are the strongest and broadest network
of theatre practitioners in the United States. They provide extensive resources and year-round opportunities for
their constituents. Their services, publications, and products contribute significantly to the careers of emerging
artists, seasoned professionals and academicians. SETC energizes the practical, intellectual and creative profile
of theatre in America.
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SETC holds a convention each spring – a portion of which, the High School Theatre Festival, is geared toward
high school students. Like GTC, SETC has one-act shows (the top two shows from each of the ten member
states), workshops, tech challenges, auditions and keynote speakers. It is, however, larger than GTC.
The High School Theatre Festival at the 2017 Southeastern Theatre Conference Convention is scheduled
for March 1-4, 2017 at the Lexington Opera House during the68th annual SETC Convention in Lexington, KY.
CHHS Theatre is not attending SETC as a troupe this year, but students may attend individually. For more
information, visit the Southeastern Theatre Conference website at http://www.setc.org/.
Theatre Competitions
GHSA One-Act and Literary
The Georgia High School Association (GHSA) holds two events in Fine Arts to produce state champions: the
One-Act Play and Literary competitions:
 The One-Act Play competition is just that. Each school competing performs a timed, one-act play or musical
of their choice for competition. Regional one-act competitions are normally held in October and state
competitions in November.
 The Literary competition includes a Dramatic Interpretation individual event for boys and girls. Literary
regional and state competitions are normally held in February and March. Regional Literary competitions may
be held any time after February 1. The state competition is held mid-March.
CHHS is a member of GHSA and typically participates in these competitions. Both events start with regional
competitions. The first place winners from each regional section (CHHS is 6AAAAAAA) can compete in the state
competition.
Each year, our Theatre Director determines if we will participate in these events.
 To cast the One-Act Play, normally open all-school auditions are held in August. After school rehearsals (for
cast and crew) are held August-October. The One-Act play is performed at CHHS and in the GHSA
competitions.
 For Literary, the Theatre Director selects the two students (one boy and one girl) to compete in the Dramatic
Interpretation events. Once submitted our Director will work with these students individually to prepare.
School-wide open auditions for the one-act competition play are on Thursday, August 11. We are
performing a one-act version of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged). The play will be
performed at CHHS on October 14 & 15 and at the 6AAAAAAA regional competition on Friday, October 28
(updated) at the Infinity Energy Center (a.k.a. Gwinnett arena).
For more information on the GHSA One-Act Play and Literary competitions, talk to your Director or visit the GHSA
website at www.ghsa.net.
Governors Honors Program
The Georgia Governor’s Honors Program (GHP) is a residential summer program for gifted and talented high
school students who will be rising juniors or rising seniors during that summer. The program offers instruction that
is significantly different from the typical high school classroom. It is designed to provide students with academic,
cultural, and social enrichment necessary to become the next generation of global critical thinkers, innovators,
and leaders.
GHP is held mid-June to mid-July on a college or university campus. Students attend classes in the mornings and
afternoons in specific areas of study, and they participate in a wide variety of social and instructional opportunities
every evening.
The CHHS Theatre Director may nominate high-achieving sophomore or junior theater students for GHP. These
nominations typically occur before the end of the school year for the following academic year (e.g., by May 2015
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for the 2016 GHP summer program). Nominated students would then participate (as sophomores or juniors) in a
rigorous regional, and then state, audition and interview process to be selected as a finalist for GHP.
For more information on GHP, visit their website at www.gosa.georgia.gov/governors-honors-program.
Biographies & Headshots
Our professionally-produced programs and some of the student-produced programs, include cast and crew
biographies and headshots. Students also use their headshots for auditions and their own personal resumes.
Biographies
Students are responsible for writing and updating their biographies. If they don’t write a biography, we will not
include one for them in the show program. Student biographies are brief, professional and should reflect positively
not only on the student, but on the theatre program as a whole. Bios typically include information about the
student’s theatrical experience and messages of recognition or gratitude. If students perform in more than one
show per year, they can update their biography appropriately. Otherwise, their original biography will be used.
Biography samples can be found in past show programs. Biography forms can be found under Forms on the
CHHS website at www.chhstheatre.weebly.com. Bio due dates will be communicated via e-mail, social media
and Remind 101.
Headshots
Headshots are taken of all performance class students (those involved in program performances) and student
officers at the beginning of the school year by a professional photographer. A second photo session may be
scheduled at beginning of the second semester for new students. Headshots will also be taken for any other
students cast in the One-Act competition play and for any crew members helping with the shows. The Booster
Club works with the Theatre Director to schedule the shoot during the school day or performance rehearsal.
Spirit Wear
Each student receives a CHHS t-shirt when they pay their curriculum enrichment fees. Additional CHHS t-shirts
may be purchased for $15. They are ordered on the Contact/Volunteer form students complete at the beginning of
the year.
In addition, show t-shirts are available for purchase before each production for $15. Show t-short order forms will
be provided by the Theatre Director and made available on the CHHS Theatre website (at
www.chhstheatre.weebly.com).
End of Year Banquet/Awards
At the end of the year, a dinner banquet is held in May to recognize the year’s accomplishments, to announce the
next year’s student officers and to wish our graduating seniors well. The banquet is normally held in a local
banquet hall or neighborhood club house with a catered dinner. Family members are welcome.
If there is a budget surplus, the Booster Club may fund dinner for the students and those who volunteered
throughout the year. Family members and guests are charged a nominal fee to cover the cost of dinner (such as
$10).
The 2016-17 end of year banquet is tentatively scheduled for May 19. More info to come.
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Booster Club Officers
The CHHS Drama Booster Club is run by a small group of parent volunteers. The current officers are:
 Kim Eafano
 Tonya Krambier
 Eileen Ross
 Scott Ross
 Caroline Whitten
If you are interested in becoming more involved with the Drama Booster Club, e-mail us at
[email protected].
Forms & Updates
Up to date copies of this handbook as well as other CHHS Theatre forms can be found on the website at
www.chhstheatre.weebly.com. Including:
 Calendar of events
 Program Ad and Sponsorship form and associated Sponsor Letter
 Contact & Volunteer form
 Thespian Points Tracking form and ITS Point System document
 Biography form
 Show t-shirt form
If you notice something that should be added to this Handbook or to our website, please email the CHHS Drama
Boosters at [email protected].
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