Instilling an appreciation for the Arts in our students and inspiring them to express themselves creatively are intrinsic to The Cushman School philosophy. Not only is this developmentally appropriate to bring out students’ creative spirit, but our intentional focus on performing in front of an audience creates exceptionally confident, capable public speakers. Music and Performing Arts is an important part of our curriculum at The Cushman School. From the time our students are in nursery up until they graduate from high school, they frequently participate in performances and assemblies, which gives them the opportunity to sing, dance, play instruments and recite poetry in front of an audience. Students in first, fourth, seventh and eighth grades must learn to deliver presentations in their annual Oratories so they master diction and elocution while developing confidence and poise. These on stage presentations inspire our students to grow creatively as they gain tremendous confidence for public speaking for the rest of their lives. A performing arts highlight of the school year, this annual tradition is held each May in our Play to Learn Center. Each year, a new musical is selected to best showcase the 5th graders; their class holds the lead roles as a rite of passage prior to matriculating on to Middle School. Aside from the 5th-grade stars, all Elementary School students (1st through 4th grade) are involved in the production as supporting cast members. The Middle School Theatre Elective provides backstage support. Impressive shows to a packed house have included: The Little Mermaid, Wizard of Oz, Aladdin, Willy Wonka, Alice in Wonderland, Annie and The Jungle Book to name a few. This onstage experience brings out the star quality in all of our students who often regard it as one of the most enjoyable Cushman memories. A theater elective is offered to our Middle School students where they explore improvisation, theatrical games and music. These students also learn auditioning techniques, critical for those interested in pursuing a career in performing arts. This work also helps our students who compete in local and state debate and speech competitions. Students in this elective also create some of the most coveted performances, such as the Founder’s Day Assembly and the Santa Sing. As the students continue on to Cushman High School, they are offered multiple fine arts electives, which include theatre, piano, choir and composition. The Cushman School is proud to be one of the sponsors of TEDxYouth@Miami. This event has taken place at the Adrienne Arsht Center in the past. Details for upcoming events are forthcoming. Watch this TEDxYouthDay Introduction Video to learn more about this compelling speaker’s forum, which is open to the entire South Florida community and live-streamed to a global audience. “Performing on stage in front of an audience instills tremendous confidence and poise. I’ve seen shy and somewhat timid toddlers bloom into powerful public speakers.” – Lisa Herbert, Director of Performing Arts
Magical Performances
Performing Arts and Music
Lisa Herbert
Director of Performing Arts
Alex Woods
Music Teacher
Vincent Hamilton
Music Teacher
Oratory Challenges
Spring Play
Performing Arts Electives
TEDxYouth@Miami
