Black Boxes—short plays traditionally performed in small, minimalist theatres with black walls— offer students unique opportunities for creativity and collaboration.
When Mr. Parker Reed, head of theatrical performance, joined the theatre department in 2013, he worked to increase the footprint of Black Box performances. Mr. Reed said, “I thought, why not expand this opportunity to cultivate theatre skills in a way that doesn’t take as much time and is also less stressful than mainstage productions?”
The frequency of Black Box productions at the school had increased since the pandemic when the theatre department moved productions outside and staged more small-scale works.
In the past year, students have performed short plays in the FFC, on the steps of Main Building, and in the Black Box proper.
Black Boxes are student-directed and almost entirely student-run, overseen by Mr. Reed who serves as faculty advisor. Student directors select plays, organize casting, and run rehearsals.
“You start by acting in a Black Box. Then you can become an assistant stage manager, a stage manager, and eventually the director,” said Coco Sheronas ’26, who has served in all of these roles.
Black Boxes often use only simple staging, lighting, and set elements. Mr. Reed said, “In this space, we try to be minimalist, utilizing symbolism rather than full costumes, props, and sets to shape each character.”
Surrounded by seating positioned closely on three sides, the Black Box theatre allows for a uniquely intimate setting. “Acting in the Black Box is such a fun experience because you really feel the energy of the audience,” Sheronas said. “The reactions are strong, so you can incorporate them into your acting.”
Students of all experience levels participate in Black Boxes. Sheronas said, “All are welcome, even if you’ve never acted before! I love getting to bring in new actors, setting them up with a character, and helping them create a product they never believed they could create at the start of the process.”
Information about the next round of Black Boxes will be posted on the HDA board across from the school store and theatre department offices in the upcoming weeks. Students of all experience levels can sign up to audition.
