Theater
The University Academy Theater class is responsible for the productions on the stage in the Shirley Bush Helzberg Theater for the Performing Arts. The ensemble ethic is the guiding principle for a theater program, which takes students through the same cycle they would experience in professional theater. Students begin with, and continue to polish audition monologues they periodically perform for the class. They continuously practice scene work to polish their acting skills with a partner, and their scenes are presented to younger audiences during class time. Public performances of full-length plays are rehearsed and performed roughly one per quarter, for various audience age groups. Full-blown productions offer students opportunities to create sets and costumes for the stage, as well as to learn the basics of stage sound and lighting techniques.

"The UA Gryphon News"
The student newspaper is an open forum for student expression and the discussion of issues of concern to its audience, published by the Student Publications class. The publication welcomes signed letters to the editor and guest columns from students, staff and community residents. The publication schedule plans two issues per month during the school year, plus special editions as needed. Students learn about all phases of newspaper production, including reporting, writing, editing, photography and page layout (graphics) by working on the paper throughout the school year.

“The Gryphon Pride”
The yearbook is also produced by students on the Student Publications staff. The mission of the yearbook is to document all activities during the school year with compelling photos and lively writing. The Student Publications class offers students opportunities to improve their writing, photography and page layout skills, using professional graphic arts computer programs.

Upper School Art Gallery

UA has a great number of very talented students in all areas of performing and applied arts. Featured here is a small sample of various forms of artwork that have been put together by a number of our Upper School students. You will see and enjoy a series of: abstract acrylic paintings, watercolor paintings, mono-chromatic paintings as well as several paintings which offered a tribute to Black History month. Check out this beautiful student artwork by  - CLICKING HERE.