Fine and performing arts are an important and vital part of the curriculum at Shrine. Not only do kids have the opportunity to sing, create and act in the classroom, but many participate in the extras offered by these departments. From Knights in Harmony and Academy Drama to Goliards and Advanced Art, our student body relishes the chance to join these programs that are built to include all who want to give it a try.
Shrine Fine and Performing Arts alumni have enjoyed great success in the professional world, including Keegan Michael Key ‘89, Katie Else ‘96, Alan Gillespie ’93, Ken Ebaugh, ‘85, Kristen Bell ‘98 and many more. Based on our record of successful alumni, we know we will see more Shrine grads making their mark in the arts.
Grades 1 through 5 attend art class once a week for 40 minutes. The art curriculum is based the planning and creation of projects using the seven elements of art with a variety of media. Students also identify artists, works of art, and study the integration of art into culture.
MusicKindergarten attends music class twice a week for 30 minutes each. Grades 1-5 attend music class once a week for 40 minutes. The music curriculum includes students learning rhythm, melody, harmony, form, tone, expressive qualities, music history and culture, through singing, playing percussion instruments, playing the recorder, movement, and dance.
Shrine Catholic High School students have received local and national recognition for works submitted to competitions, including Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, Michigan Student Film & Video Festival Art Awards, Regional Art Competition and Young Art. Shrine student art work has been displayed in Carnegie Hall and the U.S. Capitol Building.
Close to 60% of our students actively participate in a variety of musical ensembles or performing arts opportunities. Shrine ensembles provide music for school and community events as well as for private functions and masses at the National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica. The music department has a history of excellence and our students regularly receive high ratings at the Michigan Schools Vocal Music Association (MSVMA) District and State Solo and Ensemble Festivals, District and State Choral Festival and other state and regional competitions.
The fall drama and spring musical provides opportunities for all students to participate in many different roles. From cast members and pit orchestra to student director and stage crew, these student productions are always a highlight of the school year and involves over two-thirds of our student body.
Hootenanny is what we call the Shrine Catholic High School student talent show. No prize, but they do have to audition! The annual Hootenanny is a long standing tradition for students, faculty and staff.
Over one-third of our students actively participate in a variety of musical ensembles. All ensembles provide music for school and community events, private functions, and Masses for Shrine Schools and the National Shrine of the Little Flower Parish. Shrine also hosts Christmas and spring concerts as well as an all-school talent show. The music department has a history of excellence in providing a well-rounded music curriculum. Our students receive high ratings at District and State Solo and Ensemble Festivals, as well as District, State, and other Regional Choral and Band Festivals. Goliard women were recently featured at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival as one of the top 14 ensembles. The music department has toured nationally and internationally.
High School EnsemblesThe Shrine Schools Music department has over 12 curricular and co-curricular vocal and instrumental groups from the Grade School through the High School & Academy. Our amazing teachers — Michelle Hurley, Stephanie Levoska and Julie Malloy, and private voice instructor Alaina Brown — are blessings to our community and continually build their programs to include all who want to take part.
The Shrine Catholic Schools Fine and Performing Arts Camp is designed to enhance art technique, vocal technique, stage presence, and acting skills. This is an opportunity for young performers to learn about and experience the fine and performing arts. Open to students entering grades 3 -9 in the fall of the upcoming year, this camp will allow students to gain more confidence, work as a team, and show off their special talents.
This is a two-week, high-energy camp directed by a staff of professional artists, actors, singers, and educators. These teachers will encourage the cast to strive for the best they have to offer. The cast will be divided into three groups by grade level. The camp will culminate with a wonderful production and art show featuring everything the students put together in two short weeks. You will be amazed and in awe of what can be accomplished with a little hard work and a lot of creativity!
The final performance takes place in July within the Sander’s Performing Arts Center at Shrine Catholic High School & Academy.