Theatre Arts Program Highlights
The Plays
Cherubs apply what they are learning in class to a fully-realized rehearsal process every evening. All students are cast in a 60-minute play at the start of the program and spend the summer rehearsing with their ensemble. Students in the Stage Management & Design/Tech track serve on a management team instead of performing, working alongside a director for each rehearsal and managing the run of their show during performance week. Each ensemble consists of 14-16 students, and is directed by a professional theatre artist from the first rehearsal through opening, providing unmatched insight into working on a collegiate production.
Friends and family are invited to attend the performances of each production at the end of the program, complete with costumes, sets, sound, and lights – all built, programmed, and run by Cherubs
Students serve on a crew for 1-2 other productions, reflecting the same requirements for undergraduate theatre programs, and giving every student a well-rounded theatrical experience
The plays are ensemble-based, rather than having one or two leading characters; every student receives a substantial part and time in the spotlight
Testimonials
“I felt like I was actually working on a professional production. All of our faculty were incredibly experienced and expected a lot of us…The show was so much fun.” - 2024 Cherub
“The care you put into crafting such a rigorous yet supportive environment was clear every day. I felt constantly challenged to push myself, while also feeling safe to take creative risks and grow in my craft. The sense of community you fostered made it possible for us to form bonds that I know will last long after the program.” - 2025 Cherub
“Thank you for this once in a lifetime experience. i will be taking so many new skills and new friends away from this program.” - 2025 Cherub
“This was truly the best summer of my life. I've learned so much and really been able to discover my own creative voice through these classes. I found so much joy in theatre over these last 5 weeks that I will carry with me forever.” - 2026 Cherub
“NHSI is special not only for the rigorous training it gives students, but for the gift of empowering the students by treating them as artists. I have been on faculty at several institutions and none of them are quite able to establish the trust, support, and love that is so present in this community. Students leave Cherubs with a deep understanding of theatre making and a deeper understanding of ensemble building." - Jeremy Ohringer, NHSI Theatre Arts Faculty
Snapshots
