Fall Brings Opportunities for Artistic Expression

In the fine arts, art teacher Elsabé Dixon facilitated numerous weekend open studios during which students could drop in and try their hand at pottery and bookmaking. She also brought a group of Turtles to Danville, Va. early in the semester to visit with mosaic artist Dotti Stone who is currently in residence at VANTAGE Art Flats.

Another weekend, 21 students traveled to Staunton, Va. to visit the Staunton Augusta Art Center and its exhibition of contemporary portraits by Andrew Davis called “LAUGHING PICTURE” and attend the American Shakespeare Center’s production of Hamlet.

St. Mary’s Choir performed off campus on multiple occasions including at Emmanuel Episcopal Church during a service the School community attended. The choir and fall dancers also showcased their skills and spent time with residents of the Commonwealth Senior Center.

On campus, the fall performing arts productions delighted audiences during their combined five shows. In the theme of “This time of year, same time, different goal,” the Fall Dance performances featured choreography by Kaykeel Dillard in collaboration with Ana Charway ‘26. The performance balanced artful displays and props with spooky themes in time for Halloween. 

The Fall Play ensemble and director Cameron Ayres brought Bernhardt/Hamlet by Theresa Rebeck to campus, which follows 1890s actress Sarah Bernhardt on her mission to put on Hamlet as the titular role. Equally funny and thought provoking, the play explores timeless themes of gender roles not only in theatre, but in society. 

Bravo, Turtles!