Black Box productions, popularized in the early 20th century as an avant-garde movement, are a rather recent addition to the theatre world. Radically simple, Black Boxes’ lack of technical distractions create what many consider to be the most “pure” form of theatre. By design, the shared space between actors and audience creates an intimate environment.
“I think it helps demystify theatre. If you see your friend, or someone you didn’t know could perform, do a great job in a Black Box, you might feel more inspired to get involved yourself,” said William Becker ʻ26.
Black Boxes at the school have evolved over the past decade. Mr. Derek Brashears, technical director, said, “When I arrived at the school, they were more like Senior directing showcases and less focused on short pieces and younger directors.” Black Boxes now are a training ground for new and experienced actors alike.
The Hotchkiss Drama Association produces three mainstage productions each year, while Black Boxes are performed more frequently, with the record high being 18 short shows in one year.
“The mainstage program is great, but there are limits in terms of opportunity,” Brashears commented. The reduced time commitment of a Black Box allows the program to be accessible to more students.
William Becker ’26 has directed, stage managed, and acted in multiple Black Box productions throughout his four years here. Becker commented on the intimate nature of performing surrounded by his peers. “I think it helps demystify theatre,” Becker said. “If you see your friend, or someone you didn’t know could perform, do a great job in a Black Box, you might feel more inspired to get involved yourself.”
For some, Black Boxes are an item to cross off their “Hotchkiss Bucket List.” For others, acting in a Black Box serves as a bridge to the larger theatre world. Mr. Brashears said, “Mr. Soulemon Torre ’19 did no theatre before he got to Hotchkiss. He did a Black Box and then was in most mainstage productions afterward.”
Currently, Black Boxes are almost entirely student-run. The faculty serve as mentors, but students lead. Becker said, “The director is a student, the stage manager is a student, and the actors are all students.”
Brashears recalled watching a rehearsal of students working together entirely on their own. “I remember thinking, I don’t need to be here,” he said. “This is exactly what I want to see in the theatre department.”
Students also choose the scripts. Because comedic scripts tend to be popular with audiences, many students choose them. However, Becker said, “There’s a lot of expectation that Black Boxes have to be funny, but they can also be a space for more serious shows.”
Black Boxes are a school staple, and considered a Tuesday night “must see” by many.
