When considering what classes to take for their first year of high school, many freshmen face the decision of choosing a class that falls into the category of fine arts. These classes can range from music classes, like choir or orchestra, to art classes, such as painting and sculpting. Many students choose art as an easy class to drop after their freshman year instead of looking at the options and finding something that truly interests them.

Freshman Samyukhtha Vidyaprakash decided to choose a fine arts class that she has been passionate about since middle school.

“I saw my first Klein Collins production of Clue where I saw these amazing sets, and I knew then and there that I had to do tech theater,” Vidyaprakash said.

She says it is a class she really enjoys.

“I will do this for all four years because I am very passionate about what I am doing,” Vidyaprakash said.

In tech theater, after taking an introductory course where students learn how to use power tools and do the basics of behind the scene work, they will get to build sets, make props, do makeup, create costumes, help with lighting and sound, and so many other cool things. Besides the amazing things they can learn, tech theater is also a great way for students to make new friends and meet people with more experience who offer a different perspective.

“My class is majority upperclassmen, so while I do feel nervous sometimes, it’s nice to have that guidance and connection with people older than me and it helps in theater when I know seniors, juniors, and occasionally sophomores,” Vidyaprakash said.

Tech theater is a cool way to be involved in school activities.

“[My favorite part of being in tech theater is] being able to work with Klein Collins Theater Department and being a part of beautiful productions,” Vidyaprakash said.