Petition to Increase the LHS Drama Club Participation Fee

The LHS Drama Program is looking forward to a great school year, offering students the opportunity to participate in many facets of theatrical arts. From stage production to vocal development and choreography – from lighting to costumes and make-up – from set design and movement to stage management and orchestra – we believe we can address the individual interests and promote the growth of every student involved in the theatrical program. However, we have concerns that the participation fee for our roster of events is minimal. While our goal is never to eliminate a student’s ability to participate, it is also to be able to provide all students with a fair and comprehensive approach to the Arts. Thus, it is our strong recommendation that the Drama Club be given permission to charge a minimum participation fee of $150.00 per member. This fee covers nine months of opportunities for each student in the form of monthly Thespian meetings and workshops, the chance to be a part of the fall play and one-act play, a full-scale musical production, talent showcase, night of awards and much, much more.

In a comparison study conducted in the local theatrical market for students ranging from ages 8-18 years old, parents are paying anywhere from $100-$150.00 for their child to participate in one production. Whereas, our students are given the opportunity to participate in three productions during the school year. Parents are paying anywhere from $75-$100.00 per acting workshop and $250-$300.00 per four acting classes. Our students are given the opportunity to participate in ten Thespian workshops each year.

A cost analysis of what it takes to run an effective drama program, one which offers students a wide range of arts training and opportunity shows a minimum budget of $25K.

We don’t often view the Arts in this light, but the reality is that drama is a team sport. It takes a cast and crew (ala “players”) working together to create a successful production. It takes a highly skilled director (ala “coach”) to teach the students the fundamentals, nurture their interests and challenge them toward growth. The students learn invaluable skills of communication, problem solving, troubleshooting and what it means to be a part of a team. Theatre builds comradery, self-confidence, public speaking skills, and technical, vocal and performance skills that will carry students beyond the high school stage. It presents them with a chance for recognition at the school level, at the state Thespian event, and the experience necessary to be able to apply for theatrical college scholarships.

We believe that Legacy High School has a lot to offer our children in the area of theatrical arts. We are proud to support the club and our students in their endeavor to learn, grow and pursue their dreams. With this in mind, we ask that the school please give permission for the Drama Club to charge a participation fee of $150.00 per student per school year.