Building Character. Inspiring Empathy. Creating Community.

Theatre at MBA is not just about learning lines or putting on a show—it’s a meaningful exploration of character, collaboration, and the human experience. In both classes and rehearsals, students are challenged to reflect deeply on who they are and who they’re becoming.

What does it truly mean to “build character”? Students wrestle with this question through ancient heroes and modern scripts, timeless virtues and contemporary dilemmas. They consider what causes characters to falter and what allows them to succeed—both on stage and in life.
 

Theater serves as a mirror, helping students understand the sorrow, complexity, absurdity, and joy that define the human condition. It offers the chance to see the world through another’s eyes—to step into the role of the stranger and grow in compassion and understanding.

With a strong emphasis on ensemble, the program values every voice. There is no star system. Instead, students learn to lead, listen, and grow together—on stage, behind the scenes, and far beyond the curtain.

Performance Opportunities  

High School 

Fall Mainstage Musical 
Acting, singing, and dance come together each year for the annual mainstage musical, a dynamic collaboration between the performing arts departments of MBA and Harpeth Hall. From beloved golden-age classics to contemporary Broadway hits, these productions challenge and inspire students to grow as versatile performers and well-rounded artists.

Fall and Winter Mainstage Plays 
Grounded in both classic and contemporary works, our mainstage productions give high school students the opportunity to develop their acting and technical skills while engaging deeply with the rich tradition of theater.

Spring Student-Directed One Acts 
Students in advanced Studio Theater classes at MBA and Harpeth Hall collaborate to write, direct, and design original 10-minute plays, gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of production.
 

Junior School 

Winter Mainstage Play 
The Junior School play is a fully staged theatrical production that brings together our 7th and 8th grade students for an unforgettable experience in performance and stagecraft. This production offers roles for actors as well as opportunities for students to participate in technical theater, including set design, lighting, and stage management. Open to all, the Junior School play is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community—and a highlight of the school year.