1970s American actor Steve McQueen inspired the name “McQueen Festival” to celebrate acting. McQueen Fest is a performing arts festival held at Advaith School in Hosur annually to encourage students in theatre production. Students are also exposed to characterization, improvisation, theatre terminologies, historical, cultural, and societal influences, analysis and evaluation of dramatic literature, movement and vocal production, technical theatre and design, playwriting skills, publicity and promotions, artistic discipline, audience etiquette, role of the director, auditioning and casting, production management techniques – roles and careers. Every section of classes 6 and up are mandated to present a theatrical production ensuring every student contributes to the production in his / her unique way.

Purpose

The purpose of this course is to provide the complete experience in theatre, what it takes to develop a show from first thought to the final strike. Activities will be designed so students can learn how to research, act, design, direct, etc. They will learn to explore the purpose of the play and the idea that desires to be expressed. The ultimate goal is to provide students with the complete guided experience, but also to allow them the time and space for self-discovery throughout the process. Where students can be introspective, and focus on themselves, while creating a work of art.

Roles

1. Producer
2. Publicity
3. Director
4. Assistant Director
5. Stage Manager
6. Assistant Stage Manager
7. Actors
8. Set Designer
9. Sound Crew
10. Lighting Designer
11. Costume Designer
12. Prop Designer
13. Prop Run Crew
14. Makeup Coordinator
15. Backstage Manager
16. Class Manager

Awards

McQueen Fest is judged by a bench of juries and gives away the following awards :

• Best Male Actor
• Best Female Actor
• Best Male Support Actor
• Best Female Support Actor
• Best Director
• Best Script
• Best Original Score
• Best Class
• Best Costume
• Best Make up
• Best Dance
• Most innovative

Learning Outcome

At the end of McQueen Festival, students learn to :

1. Demonstrate use of advanced acting techniques, improvisation, and character analysis to reflect internal and external qualities of a character, as well as style, and culture of the production.
2. Understanding of major historical periods and playwrights and the impact of culture and society on theatrical productions.
3. Use of advanced movement and vocal production techniques.
4. Understanding of stagecraft and technical theatre design(i.e., properties, costumes, make-up, lighting, sound, and set).
5. Understanding of the respective contributions, responsibilities, and craft of the producer, designer, manager, and classmates.
6. Understanding of collaborative skills and artistic discipline required to participate in theatre productions.
7. Understanding of the connections between acting and the contributions, responsibilities, and craft of the director.
8. Understanding of theatre production management techniques which includes; leadership team, chain of command, and job-specific responsibilities.
9. Understanding of the auditioning and casting process.
10. Demonstrate responsible behaviour in dramatic activities as a participant or audience member.
11. Understanding the role of a publicity campaign to promote theatre productions.
12. Demonstrate use of intermediate-level playwriting skills to write a monologue or scene and apply relevant aspects of Aristotle’s Poetics to the writing.
13. Demonstrate understanding of the effect of technical elements on the mood, style, and setting of a production. Compare the artistic content as described by playwrights, actors, designers, and/or directors with the final artistic production.
14. Analyze and evaluate the structure, style, thematic content, and period of dramatic literature to be performed.
15. Demonstrate use of appropriate theatre terminology when participating in or evaluating theatre designs, rehearsals, and productions.
16. Helps identify opportunities and requirements for a career in theatre arts.

POSITIVE EFFECTS OF MCQUEEN FEST

McQueen Fest teaches one to be present, listen, co-create, trust one’s instincts, and develop teamwork. The Fest also builds self-confidence and self-awareness. It promotes self-reflection, imagination, empathy, cooperation, concentration, boosts communication skills, emotional intelligence, physical fitness, improves memory, appreciates – self, friends, arts and culture. Imbibe creative problem solving abilities, ability to work independently, time-budget skills, promptness and respect for deadlines, acceptance of rules, respect classmates, adaptability and flexibility, work under pressure, healthier self-image, acceptance of disappointment and ability to bounce back and goal-oriented approach towards life. Students develop the spirit to accept responsibility and enjoy and embrace time and life.

RESEARCH HAS PROVEN

• Students involved in drama performance outscored non-arts students academically
• Drama improves reading comprehension, and both verbal and non-verbal communication skills
• Drama helps improve school attendance and reduce high school dropout rates
• A 2005 Harris Poll revealed that 93% of the public believes that arts, including theatre, are vital to a well-rounded education
• Drama can improve skills and academic performance in children and youth with learning disabilities.

Advaith’s McQueen Fest provides students with a stimulating blend of cultural diversity, intellectual rigor, and professional experience, all in an intimate, learning and supportive atmosphere. Every act produces professional student – actors, directors, designers, technicians, and audience. The program combines intense, conservatory-style training within the context of a liberal arts education at Advaith School in Hosur. Students gain renowned breadth of experience, on and off stage, on camera, and in all behind-the-scenes roles, and they embrace one of the strongest and most supportive classmates!