What do I need to prepare for my audition?
Click on the "Auditions" tab under "more . . ." The application has all the criteria for each PAC discipline's audition.
What is your schedule like?
In order to provide more opportunities for students to take electives in the performing arts, we offer some of our PAC courses during our "Extended Day" schedule--basically keeping with our alternating A/B schedule, with two more classes taught on alternating days. For example, this year's PAC Drama students who've met prerequisites can take Drama 3-4/Advanced Drama and/or Theatre Performance. There are also Band and Strings courses taught during PAC Extended Day.
So if I'm in PAC, does that automatically mean that I'm enrolled in Extended Day courses?
No. Most of the time, Extended Day courses are upper level courses, so at some point you can count on taking those classes in order to continue being enrolled in PAC, working toward a PAC diploma. Not every single PAC student is busy on campus every afternoon during the Extendad Day periods.
What is this PAC Diploma you speak of?
Our PAC students who are currently enrolled must adhere to the course of study set out by each PAC discipline. It's available in the handbook for courses on the Damonte Ranch website. Successful completion of that coursework means a student will receive special recognition as a Performing Arts Center graduate. Contact an instructor for a particular course guide so you can see the classes you're required to take.
Do I have to take at least one performing arts class every year?
Um, yea. We assume that's the reason you're applying to PAC, because you need more performing arts in your life. We know things change, though. If you decide PAC isn't for you and you're a regularly zoned DRHS student, simply speak to your teacher and counselor about removing your PAC status. If you are zoned outside of DRHS and no longer wish to be a PAC student, your variance will be pulled and you'll be unenrolled at DRHS and will attend your zoned school.
Can I play sports at DRHS if I'm there on a PAC variance?
Yes? That's a great question, since many of our courses are taught after the regular school day ends--when most teams practice. Because PAC courses are regular classes for a grade, attendance, etc., you'd have to ask yourself at some point to make a choice. Depending on the sports season, we have had some students manage both a sport and take a class, but not most. If you decide to return to your zoned school, you will not be eligible to play sports there for one year. That might be important to note.
I like both dancing and playing violin. Can I do both?
Yes! We encourage PAC students to take courses outside just one performing arts discipline! Study the recommended courses of study in the Signature Academies brochure for details and examples of classes you will be required to take, as well as where you have some great choices in PAC electives to help round out your performing arts background. It's not exactly like a college major . . . sample things!
I'm nervous about the audition. Any advice?
PREPARE! Stage fright is a perfectly normal experience, so you'll want to make sure you've given plenty of rehearsal time to your audition material so that when nerves kick in, you can fly right through it, channelling that energy into a great experience. Consider an audition your chance to do something you really love to do: perform!