Theatre as an artform has existed for thousands of years; from Greek tragedy to Shakespearean tales and even Broadway musicals, it continues to evolve and maintain itself as a staying force in entertainment. At Collierville High School, this sentiment rings true as its own theatre prepares to show Water for Elephants and The 39 Steps, its two newest performances.

Jeffrey Robbins, a teacher at Collierville High, is involved in the departments of film history, speech and debate, and the art of theatre. In his words, these new performances are “technically brilliant” and display “impressive choreography,” the likes of which have been rarely seen in a school performance.

Despite the technical prowess these shows offer, Robbins is quick to draw equal attention to the art behind them; describing how, for him, raw skill and talent are not what elevate these films to greatness but instead the “passion and love” which go into them. He applies this as a truth to the art of theatre, as well; “Without a love for the medium, even the greatest talent eventually burns out.”

Water for Elephants and The 39 Steps are living proof of the importance of theatre in that it is a perfect vessel for creativity and passion; the actors and directors for these two shows participate not only to finish their jobs but to see a work of art completed and brought into the world. The fact that this is possible in an environment such as a school represents the reach this medium has and the way in which it enables individuals to realize these passions.

Ultimately, Robbins urges individuals to see Collierville High’s newest performances, citing the “visual power” of theatre as the greatest force for awakening the passion for theatre within a person; it was what made him fall in love with the art since his own high school days.