The Arts

The visual and performing arts are a vital component of the St. Anselm’s experience.

Both inside and outside the classroom, students at all grade levels take advantage of our outstanding facilities and faculty, putting on myriad concerts, plays, musicals and exhibits throughout the school year.

In both the Middle and Upper Schools, the art program forms an integral part of the curriculum. By focusing on the fundamentals of art and drawing in Middle School, students are guided in form and technique. In the Upper School, skills are developed further and students are able to move on to advanced studio art, including Advanced Placement courses. Computer design and graphics play a large role at all levels of art instruction. In the Middle School, students design websites, while Upper School students use graphic design programs to create functional artwork, such as poster advertisements for the school’s drama productions and other extracurricular activities.

 

The performing arts program at St. Anselm’s encompasses all aspects of music and theater. Middle School students choose among electives in chorus, orchestra and music appreciation for all three years. The Upper School program is primarily extracurricular, although elective courses are offered in Forms V and VI. There are several major concerts each year that showcase the school’s performance groups as well as individual students.

 

The theater program provides electives in production, acting and film. Introduction to the theater occurs in Form I, but students are able to participate in stage productions throughout their years at St. Anselm’s. An all-school musical is presented each year, as well as an Upper School play in the fall and a Middle School play in the spring.

 

Concerts, musicals and plays are held in the Brian K. Devine Performing Arts Center, which opened in 2003 and includes a theater with seating for nearly 400 as well as ample rehearsal and office space.