“There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other mediums; and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open.

You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.”

Martha Graham.

What does this mean? As actors, we push ourselves to be vulnerable, to risk looking foolish. Argonaut drama students should feel safe to experiment, to be creative, and to find the best within themselves, knowing that their worth as artists lies not in others’ eyes, but in their own uniqueness as human beings.

Argonaut drama students are also taught that theatre is a craft that requires discipline. As such, they do exercises every day to strengthen the body and voice. They play games to develop improvisational skills, as well as build a sense of community, for, above all, theatre is a collaborative art, requiring trust and positive energy. students will learn to analyze scripts, develop characterizations, and work as an ensemble. In the end, students will put their newfound knowledge into practice, performing for each other and in production.

Argonaut Drama offers students – even those without theatrical aspirations – newfound confidence, poise before an audience, empathy and a greater world view, skills that translate to everyday high school life and beyond.

• Argonaut Drama additional Information