Foundations of Theatre Builds Skills Onstage and Off

At The Lawrenceville School, the Foundations of Theatre class isn't merely about learning lines and stagecraft; it's a transformative journey of self-discovery and creative exploration. Spanning two terms, the course delves into the fundamental elements of theater, blending theoretical insights with practical skills that resonate far beyond the stage of the Kirby Arts Center (KAC).

Led by Performing Arts teacher Jamie Cuthrell, the class begins by studying Aristotelian theory and progresses through guideposts of theater and elements of design. These frameworks deepen students' understanding of dramatic storytelling and empower them to apply these principles practically. From analyzing plot dynamics to creating immersive stage designs, every lesson integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.

Off-stage, students immerse themselves in the design process, making decisions on scenic, costume, and prop choices with an artist’s eye. Cuthrell elaborated, “They each design their own set for a scene in the play ‘She Kills Monsters’ by Qui Nguyen drawing ground plans and elevations. They’re thinking about how space shapes storytelling—what’s onstage, what’s not, where the entrances are, how the environment supports the action.”

Students also engage in creating physical design elements, such as mood boards and 3D models. Cuthrell noted, “Some of them bring in cardboard or clay or even use LEGO to build out their designs. It’s tactile and thoughtful. Design is just as expressive as acting. It’s asking: what story are we telling, and how do we show it without words?”

The class embraces Lawrenceville’s Harkness approach, relying on discussion, observation, and constructive feedback. Students critique each other to move beyond empty praise to meaningful insight, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration that mirrors Lawrenceville's ethos of Harkness learning—where every voice matters, and every perspective enriches the collective experience.

Luke Pometti ’25 recalls Foundations of Theatre as one of his favorite classes during his four years at Lawrenceville. He credits the course – and its teacher - with boosting his confidence and preparing him for performances in Second Form Shakespeare and Winter Fest. “Theater at Lawrenceville is associated with joy, fun, and excitement, largely due to Mr. Cuthrell and his Foundations of Theatre class,” he reflected. “He’s a teacher who not only wants to teach the subject but wants to teach it to you—and you want to learn from him in return.”

Beyond artistic merits, the Foundations of Theatre class equips students with invaluable life skills: confidence in self-expression, resilience in facing challenges, and empathy in understanding diverse perspectives. It's a curriculum that not only prepares them for future theatrical pursuits but also nurtures their growth as individuals.

J.C. Clemons ’28 applies the skills learned in class to life outside the KAC, stating, “Communication and building relationships with peers during acting helps you become better acclimated to your community and improves compatibility with peers.”

Xinxin Yang ‘28 said the class has nearly cured her stage fright. “I’ve gained confidence in performances. Even when I forget a line, I can now quickly improvise and save the moment,” she explained. “Theater is where you can feel free to express yourself—be loud and proud. What’s the fun in theater if you don’t pour your heart into it?”

For Lawrentians, Foundations of Theatre offers more than an introduction to the stage—it’s a space to build skills, confidence, and connection. Whether designing sets or delivering lines, they leave the course with tools that support both creative expression and personal growth.

For more information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H'17, director of public relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org.