The High School Company

THE
HIGH SCHOOL
COMPANY

THE WHOLE WORLD IS
A GARDEN

For nearly a decade, Penny & Pound Theatre Productions has been a driving force in youth theatre education in Southwestern Ontario. Now, for the first time, we are pleased to present our HIGH SCHOOL COMPANY- a performance program designed specifically for performers in Grades 9-12 who are looking to immerse themselves in the world of theatrical arts! Over the course of ten months, students will experience all aspects of theatre production while working towards performing a full-scale musical. Guided by experienced theatre veterans and bi-monthly guests, students are encouraged to take risks and grow in both their art and their confidence!
All students who register will be able to take part in this exciting project!

This year’s musical? THE SECRET GARDEN, based on the beloved novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

The Secret Garden follows Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely girl sent to live with her reclusive uncle at Misselthwaite Manor after her parents' death. There, she discovers a hidden, neglected garden and, with the help of new friends Dickon and Colin, brings it back to life. As the garden flourishes, so do the children, transforming through friendship, nature, and the healing power of hope.

Students will help to develop this new Canadian musical through workshops, readings and a final public performance.

ONLINE REGISTRATION IS OPEN UNTIL
September 1st, 2025

PARTICIPANTS WILL…

Learn the fundamentals of musical theatre and performance including theatre terminology, script analysis, character creation, vocal techniques (spoken and musical), choreography, staging and improvisation
Experience all aspects of theatrical production including costuming, set and prop creation, and theatre tech
Learn and receive mentorship from experienced industry professionals
Earn high school volunteer hours
Grow in confidence and skill in a safe and encouraging environment dedicated to their comfort and well-being
Create lifelong friendships

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

THE SECRET GARDEN is open to singers, actors and dancers in Grade 9-12. All who register will be cast in the production.

Penny & Pound Theatre Productions is a safe and inclusive youth and young adult production company with a mission to offer the best in community arts and youth theatre education in the Region. We encourage full participation from performers identifying as members of the IBPOC community and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, as well as performers with disAbilities and those of all gender identities, social and economic backgrounds and beliefs. We are looking for enthusiastic performers with a keen knack for singing, acting, dancing or all three! No previous experience is necessary. All we ask is that all students enjoy creative challenges, are hardworking and have a love of the theatrical arts!

TERMS & PRICING

TERM ONE | SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER 2025
Term One will see the students learn and expand on their knowledge of the fundamentals of musical theatre. With a weekly workshop in various disciplines, students will grow confident in their performance abilities through vocal lessons, improvisation training, movement training, and more! Term One culminates in all students joining the Penny & Pound MainStage production of ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ as carollers.
At the end of Term One, parents and students will receive a progress report from the instructors, detailing the student’s strengths and next steps.

TERM TWO | JANUARY-JUNE 2026
Term Two will begin with students auditioning for specific roles in their culminating production of A LITTLE PRINCESS. Throughout the remainder of the term, the show will be rigorously rehearsed and choreographed, with students further developing their skills both on-stage and behind-the-scenes. Term Two culminates in a MainStage production of ‘THE SECRET GARDEN,’ open to the public.
At the end of Term Two, parents and students will receive a final progress report from the instructors, detailing the student’s growth over the ten-month program.

PRICING
This program is $1500 in total.
Payments can be made in full on the first day of the program, OR a monthly payment plan can be arranged.

ALL PROGRAMS WILL BE HELD IN CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO.
EXACT LOCATION TBD.

IMPORTANT DATES

Saturdays from 2:00-5:00 PM
TERM ONE - Saturday, September 13th- Saturday, December 6th
TERM TWO - Saturday, January 10th- Saturday, June 20th

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

IS PRIOR EXPERIENCE IN DRAMA OR THEATRE NECESSARY?
No prior experience is necessary. The program is designed to meet participants where they are and help them grow at their own pace, whether they are new to drama or have experience.

WHAT HAPPENS IF A STUDENT MISSES A CLASS?
Consistent attendance is greatly encouraged, especially as rehearsals progress, but students can catch up with the help of instructors or peers.

HOW ARE ROLES ASSIGNED?
Roles are based on auditions, enthusiasm, and what best suits each student’s strengths and growth potential.

WHAT IF MY CHILD IS NERVOUS ABOUT PERFORMING?
No need to worry! This program fosters a supportive environment where students build confidence at their own pace.

WHAT DOES MY CHILD NEED TO BRING?
Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for movement, a water bottle, and a willingness to participate! Penny & Pound will provide students with the necessary scripts, music and costumes.

HOW CAN PARENTS AND GUARDIANS GET INVOLVED?
Parents and guardians can help with costumes, set design, ticket sales, or simply cheer on their child from the audience!