Howard T. Herber Middle School recently celebrated the power of student leadership and creativity during its 8th Annual Theater Camp, where 70 middle schoolers came together to stage a live performance of Gravestone Manor.

Under the guidance of camp director Mr. Coonan, the four-day summer program gave students total ownership of the production. From making key creative decisions to handling the technical demands behind the scenes, participants ran every aspect of the show themselves.

Gravestone Manor unfolded through a series of vignettes—short, individual plays presented within the larger performance. Student directors took the helm for each vignette, collaborating closely with student actors and stage managers to establish the vision and bring each scene to life. In addition to mastering their roles, students sourced their own costumes, organized and managed props, learned technical operation and memorized their lines.

Putting together a full show in just four days (working three hours per day) was no small feat, but the cast and crew rose to the challenge. Their dedication resulted in a polished, hour-long performance delivered to an audience of more than 100 family members, friends and community supporters.

Congratulations to all our theater camp students on an incredible effort, and thank you to everyone who came out to support our talented young performers!