Perpich Arts High School Theater Ensemble Presents: “An Evening of 10 Minute Plays”

March 16, 2026

Perpich theater seniors stepped into new roles recently with “An Evening of 10 Minute Plays – Directing and Jr. Acting Projects”, a performance that challenged students to lead, collaborate, and think beyond the stage.

Actors perform “Hold for Three” directed by Ailee Bartz (Musical Theater 2026)

For many, the experience marked a shift from acting to directing. “It’s not like acting—I’m not the one on stage,” said Ailee Bartz (Musical Theater 2026). “I’m the one who has to guide actors… and have the vision for what they’re going to be doing.” Bartz admitted she was initially unsure about the project, but quickly found herself drawn in by the creative process and the challenge of shaping a production from the outside.

A key lesson for student directors was learning how to balance leadership with collaboration. “It was trying to find a balance between what ideas do I want…and what do my actors bring?” Bartz said. “We just all kind of worked together to build one thing that we can all say we all did.”

Audrey Tuite (Musical Theater 2026) echoed the complexity of directing for the first time, especially when it came to visual storytelling. “I learned how to create stage pictures and blocking…and to be direct and clear about what I wanted,” she said. “I really had to know what I wanted in order for them to understand what to do.” She also noted how quickly the process came together, crediting her actors’ dedication and preparation.

Actors perform “picnic (pik ‘nik)” directed by Audrey Tuite (Musical Theater 2026)

The impact of the work was clear to audiences and school leadership alike. “The range was incredible. There were moments of sharp humor, deep thought, vulnerability, and powerful emotions,” said Rebecca Bullen, Perpich Arts High School Principal. “Students embraced experimentation, collaboration, and courage, creating spaces where new ideas and identities could be explored and celebrated.” She also praised the technical elements, noting that “the sound and lighting added depth and atmosphere that really brought the works to life.”

The project is designed to build leadership skills that extend beyond the theater. Tory Peterson, Theater Instructor, emphasized that every student develops their own directing style, whether structured, coaching, or collaborative. “Learning to lead and exhibiting flexibility…will gain the director great respect,” Peterson said. “It will also help them grow as a person.”

By stepping into leadership roles, Perpich seniors not only created compelling performances, they gained a deeper understanding of the teamwork and vision required to bring theater to life.