Arts

Performing Arts

The Emery/Weiner performing arts program is broken down into two components: stagecraft and theatre arts.

Students Run the Show.

At Emery, theatre education goes far beyond the spotlight. While our actors bring stories to life on stage, our student stagecraft crew runs everything behind the scenes—designing sets, executing lighting and sound, managing costumes, and calling every cue. It’s hands-on, all-in training that gives students the full experience of building a production from the ground up.

List of 3 items.

  • Stagecraft Courses

    Stagecraft courses concentrate on safety and proper use of theatre machinery paired with a solid training program in theatrical painting techniques, scenic construction, lighting techniques, sound execution, and prop creation. Dedicated technical theatre students may enroll in design and production, a year-long course focused on advanced techniques for lighting, sound, and set design.
  • Theatrical Production

    At Emery/Weiner, every production is powered by our stagecraft students. They run the shows from behind the scenes, gaining real-world, hands-on experience on industry-level equipment. Thanks to generous community support, the Becker Theater features deck automation, an automated fly rail, and other cutting-edge tech—making it the most advanced school theater in Houston. Students also use the Levine Innovation Lab’s 3-D printers, CNC router, and more to design and build professional-quality sets and effects.
  • Special Events

    Beyond our seven annual productions, Stagecraft students help run countless special events throughout the year. Partnerships with Houston’s professional theatre companies give them insider access to industry experts, offering real-world skills and connections that extend far beyond the school stage.

Where Every Student Finds Their Spotlight.

Theatre at Emery/Weiner is fearless, creative, and alive. Students in grades 6–12 don’t just learn to perform—they explore every facet of the stage: acting, dance, directing, playwriting, design, theatre history, and more. Each class builds technique, sparks collaboration, and prepares students to bring powerful stories to life for the entire community.

List of 4 items.

  • Annual Theatrical Productions

    Emery produces seven major shows every year—plus a variety of student-led performances and special events. From musicals to dramas to experimental pieces, the lineup changes annually to give students and audiences a diverse, dynamic theatre experience. Students in grades 6–12 are welcome to audition or contribute behind the scenes, making the stage a place for everyone.
  • Middle School Theatre Arts

    Middle School Theatre Arts sparks creativity, confidence, and collaboration. Students begin with an introductory rotation in 6th grade, then branch into theatre or dance as their skills and interests grow. They shine in signature productions like the 6th Grade Musical, the Middle School Play, the Middle School Musical, and the all-school One-School Musical, which unites grades 6–12 on one stage.
  • Upper School Theatre Arts

    Upper School Theatre Arts challenges students to grow as performers, creators, and leaders. Actors progress from Theatre Arts I for foundational skills to Theatre Arts II for advanced techniques, directing, and script analysis. Dance I and II welcome beginners and experienced dancers alike, blending technique, choreography, and performance. Juniors may apply for the prestigious Senior Directing Seminar, which culminates in the fully student-produced Senior Directed Projects each spring.
  • Advanced Theatre Pathways

    Upper School students can tailor their theatre journey to their passions. They may pursue independent studies with arts faculty, join the cast or crew of three annual mainstage shows — the Upper School Play, Upper School Musical, and the all-school One-School Musical — or participate in the Senior Directed Projects and other performances throughout the year. Students who demonstrate exceptional dedication may also join the International Thespian Society, earning recognition for their artistry, leadership, and service in theatre.

Experience The Difference

The Emery/Weiner School
The Emery/Weiner School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation or identity, or religion in all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The Emery/Weiner School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation or identity, or religion in the administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.