Upper School ARTS
Performing Arts
At King, we believe the performing arts are more than just music, theater, and dance—they’re a powerful way to explore who we are and how we understand the world around us.
Whether it’s through the precision of a musical performance or the storytelling of a stage production, the arts spark curiosity, creativity, and deep inquiry—just like math, science, history, and literature.
Our Performing Arts Program invites students to express themselves using their voices, hands, and bodies in ways that go beyond the traditional classroom.
Whether you’re picking up an instrument, stepping onto the stage, or working behind the scenes in technical theater, you’ll gain confidence, sharpen your reasoning skills, and collaborate in ways that are both exciting and meaningful.
Theater Arts at King
Theater arts play a major role in the arts program at King School. Every year, students in the theater arts program bring stories to life through comedies, musicals, and dramas. Whether acting in a lead role, working on set design, or managing the stage, students gain hands-on experience in all aspects of theatrical production.
Upper School Performing Arts
In the Upper School, students have countless opportunities to develop their artistic talents. From acting in a play to composing music, from stage combat to sound engineering, we offer courses that nurture creativity at every level. Our classes include:
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Theater & Drama: Acting, musical theater, stage design, storytelling, and more. Music: Choir, band, instrumental ensembles, guitar, piano, and music theory. Production & Tech: Audio engineering, sound design, music production, and stagecraft. Whether you want to perform in a jazz ensemble, write your own songs, or learn how to run a lighting rig, there’s something for everyone! |
| Upper School Productions |
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Love performing? You’ll have plenty of chances! King’s performing arts curriculum allows students to follow multiple creative paths—whether that’s being in the spotlight in a theater production, leading a band, composing original music, or even learning the ins and outs of Students with a strong interest in continuing their performing arts journey in college also receive specialized support. From building audition portfolios to navigating the unique college application process for music and theater programs, we’re here to help. |
| Certificate of Distinction in Performing Arts |
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For students looking to take their passion for the arts to the next level, King offers a Certificate of Distinction in Performing Arts. This elective program is designed for those who want to dig deeper into their craft and gain a competitive edge for college auditions and applications. The Certificate is flexible, allowing students to tailor their coursework to their specific interests—whether that’s music, theater, or technical production. It’s a fantastic opportunity for students who are serious about pursuing performing arts in college and beyond. |
Ready to Take the Stage?
At King, the performing arts are more than just an extracurricular—they’re a core part of who we are. No matter your experience level, we encourage you to explore, create, and perform. Whether you dream of Broadway, a recording studio, or simply love the arts, we invite you to find your voice here.
Want to learn more? Join us for an upcoming performance or reach out to our Performing Arts faculty today!
Art and Design
Where Creativity Meets Purpose
At King, art is more than just an elective — it’s a cornerstone of our students’ growth, imagination, and self-expression. We believe that every student is an artist at heart, and in our Upper School, we provide the space, tools, and guidance for them to bring that identity to life.
From their first art class in Grade 9 to the culminating Art Colloquium in their senior year, students embark on a creative journey that evolves from learning foundational techniques to exploring deeply personal and visionary projects. Our students aren’t just making art — they’re telling stories, solving problems, and seeing the world in bold new ways.
Whether they’re sketching, sculpting, filming, or designing garments, King artists learn to:
- Develop original and personally meaningful work
- Build confidence through experimentation and risk-taking
- Hone craftsmanship using a wide range of media
- Explore global art history and cultural perspectives
- Express themselves with authenticity and courage
A Creative Path for Every Learner
Art at King is woven into the fabric of our curriculum. All students take at least one IDEA (Introduction to Design Elements and Art) course — like Studio Art or Fashion Design — to build core skills in visual language, design thinking, and artistic identity.
From there, students choose their creative path:
Studio Minors
- Drawing, Painting, Clay Workshop, Printmaking, and more
- Hands-on courses to explore different media and refine technique
- Semester-long classes that fit into a well-rounded academic schedule
Studio Majors
For students who want to dive deeper, our major courses — like Advanced Art 1–4, Clay Explorations, and Fashion Design: Stitching an Identity — allow them to build portfolios, design personal projects, and even prepare for AP Art & Design.
- Create an independent syllabus in Advanced Art 3 & 4
- Prepare for college-level portfolio reviews
- Exhibit final projects in our annual OPEN Art Show
Digital & Film Arts: The New Canvas
Art isn’t confined to a sketchbook. King’s robust Digital Art and Filmmaking program equips students to tell compelling stories through:
- Digital Photography I & II
- Digital Art & Design
- Filmmaking and Script to Screen
- Audio/Visual Content Creation
- Cinema Studies and King Publications
Students produce everything from short films and photo essays to multimedia content and yearbook spreads — developing real-world skills in storytelling, collaboration, and communication.
Certificate of Distinction in Art and Design
The Art and Design program stresses the importance of original creative thinking and individual artistic expression. Students engage in art-making based on observation and vision, are encouraged to use critical thinking, and to persist in exploring unique ways of executing their work. Learning is supported by exposure to the history of art and work from artists around the globe. Reflection and class critiques further strengthen artistic growth.
Students who wish to pursue a Certificate of Distinction in the Art and Design will complete challenging coursework, participate in related club activities, and partake in summer and/or extra-curricular art learning, culminating in authentic capstone projects that reflect their unique artistic vision. Students will consider their role as an artist within society, creating work that is relevant, original, and that addresses universal concerns through the exploration of a personal theme.
If you have questions or would like further information about this distinction, please contact Brady Shoemaker, Chair of Art and Design Department, at bshoemaker@kingschoolct.org.
Art Is Everywhere — And So Are We
Every course incorporates diverse perspectives from around the world and across history, empowering students to engage with art as both a global language and a deeply personal mode of expression.
We invite students to explore essential themes like:
- Art and identity
- Social responsibility and sustainability
- Race, gender, and culture in visual media
- The power of fashion, film, and photography to shape society