St. Peter’s drama program was started in 1964 by Carl William Lesch. We were the first school to ever produce a full-length musical production on Staten Island. Flash forward to today and St. Peter’s drama program continues to teach, inspire and mold performers for the future.

Under the direction of Andrew Montelione, a graduate of Professional Performing Arts school, the drama program has produced shows such as “Les Miserables,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Jekyll and Hyde” and “Shrek: The Musical,” among others. In the past, alumni have attended some of the most prestigious college musical theatre programs including Point Park University, American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and Wagner College.

Auditions for the drama program begin in October, with rehearsals on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. During this time, students learn acting techniques, receive vocal lessons, work on song interpretation and practice choreography. The drama program also offers college audition preparation for juniors and seniors.

Annual production takes place in May. In June, performers have the opportunity to be a part of the Minty Awards, an annual awards show for the seven Catholic high school theatre programs. The Minty Awards give the students an opportunity to work with other schools and perform on stage at the historic St. George Theatre, along with other programs throughout the year. Over the years, St. Peter’s has won 17 Minty Awards, including Outstanding Musical in 2012 with “Les Miserables” and in 2014 with “Jekyll and Hyde.”

The drama program also includes an award-winning stage crew for students who are interested in working behind the scenes. From building and painting set pieces to moving the set during the show or working the lights, the stage crew gives students the opportunity to get involved in the show without stepping on stage. The drama program strives to teach students carpentry, painting, lighting design and other tasks in a safe environment. The stage crew begins in April and work after school to transform the gym into a theatre.

For more information on the drama program, contact Mr. Montelione at monte1060@gmail.com.