Theatre 1 isn’t just monologues and memorization. It’s behind the scenes and learning the stage, which is what the freshman theater class learned about at the Perot Theater in downtown Texarkana on Sept. 3.

Theatre 1’s curriculum covers all the aspects of theater such as acting, movement, and theater history. This packed curriculum teaches students all of the basic information to be a successful actor. Including different kinds of stages and how they work.

“One of the things that they get to learn when they go to the Perot is how the fly system works. Our theater is what they call dead hung, which means that the curtains and lights can raise and lower,” Director Lisa Newton said. “But the Perot has a class system, which means that they use ropes and pulleys to raise and lower curtains, drops, and lights.”

Learning theater’s rich and vast history has its challenges. The Perot Theater showcases its history with detailed historical interior design as well as architectural design.

“They also learn about the history of the Perot theater,” Mrs. Newton said. ”It is absolutely fascinating to see inside of one of the most beautiful theater buildings in the United States.”

Freshman are usually fascinated by the Perot’s intricate design, as well as the interesting behind the scenes work few people get to see.

“My favorite part of the trip was probably going downstairs and seeing the dressing rooms,” freshman Sarah O’Neal said. “I liked seeing the ropes backstage and all, because I like that kind of stuff.”