At Country Day, every student has the chance to shine as they begin performing in front of peers, parents, and faculty as young as junior kindergarten. For students who choose to pursue drama in Upper School, there are numerous opportunities to act on stage, as well as be involved behind the scenes in technical theater. The quality of our theatre program, under the direction of Jenny Goodfellow, is regularly recognized with awards won for direction, acting, production design, and choreography in state, regional, and international competitions. However, the biggest rewards for our Upper School students are the lessons learned and the sense of belonging they feel as part of the program.
Read reflection excerpts from the senior cast and crew members of the theatre program’s most recent production, the musical Bright Star.
Reagan Harris
“Looking back on my time in Country Day Theatre, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. From my very first role in fourth grade as a munchkin in The Wizard of Oz to my final performance as a senior, each show has been a journey of growth. Through building rivers out of chairs, hills out of pallets, and trains out of suitcases, I've learned it only takes creativity, trust, and a willingness to fail to make something beautiful where there once was nothing at all. These lessons, both onstage and off, have prepared me for whatever comes next in life. I am beyond proud of the person I have become and cannot wait to see what lies next for all of us. As I prepare to leave this chapter behind, I'll carry with me the memories of these incredible productions, and the knowledge that I've grown not only as an artist but as a person.”
Sabrina McGovern
“The first time I entered the black box, our rehearsal space, I was terrified. I was in a new school and surrounded by unfamiliar people. Adding onto my fear was that I was auditioning for A Midsummer Night's Dream. Shakespeare terrified me. Mrs. G began by asking us to form a circle and called us a family. For the next two hours, we played games, were asked to make shapes with our bodies inspired by the moon, and learned a movement sequence taught by Mrs. Booth. I left that day thinking, ‘That was the strangest thing I have ever done, and I need to do this for the rest of my life.’ Over the past four years, the black box has served as a sanctuary where I discovered my voice, built unbreakable bonds, and learned lessons that will carry me far beyond college. In this space, I found belonging as I was surrounded by people who supported me. I will be forever thankful for the people I have met and the experiences I have had through this program.”
Porter Hoops
“My first true theatrical experience was being a munchkin in the high school production of The Wizard of Oz when I was in the fourth grade. Being a part of that show inspired me to continue performing in middle school and high school, where I had the opportunity to play a range of characters–from the ogre Shrek to the poet Nigel Bottom in Something Rotten. The theatre community has been a truly supportive and inspiring place, allowing me to grow and feel at home. This is my fourth and final Country Day musical, and I'm grateful for the incredible journey I've had with these productions. I can't wait to see where my love for theatre will take me next.”
Mallie Waters
I have been lucky to perform in five different shows with Mrs. G. From The Wizard of Oz when I was in fourth grade, to this year with Bright Star, every time she has pushed me to become a better actor and castmate. I have loved getting to know all the amazing people in the theatre department and I am so fortunate to get to call all these amazing people my friends. Thank you for all the laughs, smiles, and memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you for making my high school career the best it could have been.”
Kat O'Neill
“I never expected theatre to mean so much to me. I never would have guessed that by the end of my senior year, I will have participated in a total of eight One Acts and Musicals. But I wouldn't change a single moment of it. From three state wins and two trips to the Southeastern Theatre Conference, to becoming Stage Manager, it has been a wild ride. Through the Country Day Theatre program, I found some of my best friends, I found countless amazing experiences, and best of all, I found myself. I may not be pursuing theatre in college, but I will always hold the memories I made and the people I met close to my heart.”
Tiffany Utley
“Joining theatre was one of the best decisions I ever made. I'm grateful every day for those people who pushed me to join theatre. I have been able to build such strong friendships that I know will stay strong after high school. I have a community I can be myself around without feeling out of place. With Mrs. Goodfellow's help, I have been able to grow over the years and I am forever grateful.”
Eva Adam Kovych
“Theatre has been a significant part of my high school journey, and my experience as a cast member in Private Peaceful in 2023 was truly unforgettable. Being part of Country Day theatre has pushed me out of my comfort zone and introduced me to a supportive, inspiring community. Thank you for making my time at Country Day so memorable!”
Penelope Cole
“This is my fourth year doing tech crew for Country Day theatre. I'm very grateful for all the friends and memories I've made along the way, and I will always look back on this time fondly. Thank you for a memorable senior year!”
Quinn Deer
“This is my first time being part of crew for a Country Day theatre production and I am so excited! It's been a pleasure working behind the scenes with my friends. I'm grateful to be able to end my senior year with such a kind and talented group of people.”
Ryan Nolan
“I'm incredibly grateful to have been part of this special community. Over the past three years in the musical, I've learned so much and met so many amazing people. Every day, I knew my castmates and the creative team would support me and push me to be the best actor/singer/dancer and person I could be. The friendships I've made and the skills I've gained will stay with me long after I graduate.”
Akansha Swamy
“This is my fourth year doing crew for the musical and it has been such an amazing experience! I am so grateful for the experiences I have had and most importantly the friends I have made!”