Drama — the stage kind — is thriving at South Bay high schools

Editor’s Note: This article was written for Mosaic, an independent journalism training program for high school students who report and photograph stories under the guidance of professional journalists.

Professional theater companies in the Bay Area have been financially struggling recently, with numerous recent closures, but the interest and activity level in some San Jose high school drama programs remains high.

Willow Glen has a thriving theater and drama program, from Willow Glen Middle School through the high school. “A cast for one of our plays can range anywhere from 20 to 55 students–that’s just one play,” said Allyson Velasquez, who teaches drama and helps direct plays at the high school.

Leigh High School has a performing arts department with several theater and musical tiers.