I’m usually biased about any high school that joins our Festival. I can only assume it means they have fearless, talented, inspiring teachers and a dynamic and thriving theatre arts department. Even at a glance, Pike High School proves me right.

Pike High School, a diverse, public high school in Indianapolis, has these really cool “academies,” which function very much like majors–clustering students into small learning communities organized around broad-based career themes that integrate school, business, and community resources to prepare all students for a successful transition into adult life.

The Performing Arts Academy includes courses for students who are interested in the creative production of ideas and development of student talents. The core subjects are Theater, Vocal/Instrumental/Dance, and Theater & Media Production.

Man, I wish my high school had been that cool.

Pike High School has chosen James Monroe for their contribution to the video project. (I hope their Media Production kids will produce it!) When I asked theatre educator Karin Stratton why Pike chose Monroe, she said “the kids really love it and are looking forward to doing the show. I love having the kids do comedy that is filled with satire and deep inspiration.”

Good enough for us. Welcome aboard, Pike High School! Congratulations on owning Indianapolis in this Festival!