News & Events 2004-2005
Multiple Uses for Open Air Theatre
Craig Evans, chair of Blair’s performing arts department, orchestrated the construction of the Robert J. Evans Open Air Theatre on an embankment overlooking Blair Lake. Christened in 2004, the venue is named after his father. Craig undertook the majority of the theatre construction, with help from his wife, children and, occasionally, some students. An article entitled, “Theatre Steps Back in Time,” written by Mike Frassinelli, appeared in the May 1 edition of the Sunday Star-Ledger, complete with four-color photographs of Craig and his students.
The theatre is used for productions by Blair Academy Players and, in warmer weather, by history and English teachers for classroom activity. These photos were taken during an English class in April taught by Charles Danhof. With swans floating by on Blair Lake, class members presented their interpretations of several poems by E.E. Cummings. “Taking my various classes down there has proven a great experience,” said Charles. “My public speaking class especially benefited from its use. The location, nestled in a hill and backed by the lake, makes the theater an ideal place to escape the frenzied life of Blair for just a while. The outdoor theatre tremendously enhances the campus.”
Other teachers enjoy using the theatre for a variety of reasons. History teacher Ryan Pagotto ’97 noted, “I used the open air theatre last fall for presentations on Renaissance figures (Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, William Shakespeare). In the morning, the mist coming off Blair Lake set a nice mood along with the backdrop of pine trees. Changing the setting/atmosphere for a class, getting away from the normal routine, and breaking from the traditional desk and chair environment can almost always be a healthy thing if guidelines are in place and if the students are excited about their particular assignment.”
Steven Kampmann added, “I used the open air theatre for public speaking; students experienced presenting an ‘issue’ speech out in the open, like politicians might. It was a memorable experience in an enchanted arena.”
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