HANOVER-HORTON THEATER CO.

Although theatre has been a part of the Hanover-Horton School District for quite some time, the Hanover-Horton Theatre Company wasn't established until the 1998-1999 school year. At this time, Theresa Kuhrt was hired to teach theatre and direct plays at the high school, and initiated the program.

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The Company strives to entertain the community through high school theatre. Two productions are produced a year and have included dramas, comedies, farces, mysteries, musicals, and even an interactive dinner theatre! While many of the plays the Company stages are new to the community, old standards are also shown, including The Mousetrap, Arsenic and Old Lace, and Schoolhouse Rock, Live!

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The Company has grown in many ways since it first began. The numbers of students participating continues to grow, so much so that plays with large casts are frequently sought! New stage designs have come into play, and - with limited resources - various techniques are attempted, including an elevator and a secret bookcase! Costuming has evolved as well, from simple, everyday costumes to more elaborate pieces, including Flappers, Renaissance men, and even an armored knight. Other technical aspects are ever expanding, as sound boards, fog machines, spotlights, and portable stage lights are also available.

 

The mission of the Company is first and foremost, to build confidence in students and to bring diverse groups of students into one big "family". The Company reaches out to all students: it has watched as special education students including a student with autism have succeeded on the stage; watched as shy students shake their namesake and shine; watched as stereotypes and cliques are thrown to the wayside and barriers broken down as students interact!

The Company also wants students to be able to experience theatre, to participate in it and have fun. There's nothing quite like hearing the applause after a great show - to know that you directly influenced another's emotions through your acting. To be able to be creative and communicate to others different roles stimulates the mind!

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Finally, The Company strives to have students enjoy theatre so much that it becomes a part of them as well. When students take ownership of their learning, it will be a success. When it matters to them, they'll do whatever it takes. Theatre becomes a part of the kids! They police themselves, holding each other to a high standard. And, even though it's hard work, they want to do more! Through the Company, life-long lovers of learning are being created! (As well as some mighty fine actors!)

Britney

Continued theatre at Jackson Community College

James

Continued theatre at Jackson Community College

Newt

Graduated as a theatre/English major from Eastern Michigan.