Drama the stage kind is thriving at South Bay high schools

"Professional theater companies in the Bay Area have been financially struggling recently, with numerous recent closures, but the interest and activity level in some San Jose high school drama programs remains high. Willow Glen has a thriving theater and drama program, from Willow Glen Middle School through the high school. A cast for one of our plays can range anywhere from 20 to 55 studentsthat's just one play, said Allyson Velasquez, who teaches drama and helps direct plays at the high school."

"I act, I costume-design, I direct, he said. I plan on being a theater major after high school. Willow Glen senior Aaron Ortiz was drawn to drama at an early age. When I was younger, I used to watch many movies with my grandparents, he said. I remember my first time watching Hamilton,' and I was just so amazed by the performance."

Professional theater companies in the Bay Area have faced recent financial struggles and closures, while some San Jose high school drama programs remain active and well-attended. Willow Glen offers a thriving program spanning middle and high school with casts ranging from 20 to 55 students. Leigh High School maintains a performing arts department with multiple tiers and about 140 students in drama classes under Maria Griswold. Musicals attract the most interest, and teachers use double-casting and understudies to involve many students. Students participate as actors and in technical, costume, and makeup roles, with many planning theater-related futures.

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