Better Late than Never: How to Get Involved in the Arts as an Upperformer

At Lawrenceville, one can sometimes feel excluded from the arts, since active participation requires an early start. The School’s vibrant artistic culture can be both inspiring and intimidating, especially for those who did not start their creative journeys at an early age and just want to try something new. So, what if you haven’t been honing your artistic skills prior to attending the School? What if you’re just beginning to explore your creative side now—as a IV or V Former?

To start, it’s important to acknowledge that the arts at Lawrenceville are welcome for everyone, regardless of experience. Whether you’ve been playing an instrument since childhood or you’ve never stepped foot on a stage, there is always room to grow. It is never too late to get involved, and this guide will show you how to begin your artistic journey, even if you’ve never done Winterfest or Spring Play, but have always wanted to take the stage. In reality, you are never truly alone. I was never into acting but put myself out there by taking a theatre class, which was, at first, a challenge. Picking up an art medium necessitates self-expressiveness and a growth mindset and not merely talent. Everyone has the capacity to develop their skills and abilities in the arts with time, practice, and guidance. When discovering your artistic voice, the journey is just as valuable as the destination, and at Lawrenceville, there’s really no wrong time to begin. 

The theatre program is a great place for newcomers to make their mark, especially because many students are not fully aware of all the ways they could contribute, ranging from scenic artists and light board operators to costume assistants and ushers. Even if you’ve never been a thespian, you can begin by acting in smaller productions—like the annual play reading series and Winterfest—or working as a technician behind the scenes. 

The music department is equally as welcoming. Students always have the option to take private beginner-level lessons. Also, every selective musical ensemble—like The Lawrentians, the Collegium Orchestra, or the Jazz Ensemble—has its more casual audition-free counterpart: the Lawrenceville Singers, the Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Jazz Band. 

For those interested in movement, dancing is another creative outlet. You can take dance as a lifetime sport during the co-curricular time slot; they offer beginner-level classes instructed in ballet, modern, and contemporary styles. Dance clubs, including Suave and Nachale, are student-led and a great way to get started, since they do not require you to be a seasoned dancer. You would be surprised by the number of students at the dance series  performing their dance style for the first time! 

If you’re unsure where to start, the best way to dive in is by exploring what’s available. Begin by attending arts events—whether it’s a play, a concert, or an art exhibit. Watching a performance or visiting a gallery can help you get a sense of what’s happening in the arts community and spark inspiration for your own involvement. These events are often open to the whole school and offer a great introduction to the kind of work that goes on behind the scenes. They  are  a great way to get accustomed to the types of activities the club, program or ensemble you are interested in offers every day. A next step is taking classes in the arts or interdisciplinary departments (Playwriting, for instance), which are designed to support students who are new to the field and help them build a strong foundation. If you feel ready to get involved more directly, you should step out of your comfort zone and audition for a show or join an ensemble. 

Trying something new in the arts can be intimidating. But remember: Whether it’s performing on stage, creating art to be shared with others, or even learning a new skill, it’s normal to feel nervous. Many students experience self-doubt when they first start exploring the arts, but that feeling is part of the creative process. It’s important to remember that practicing art is about growth, not perfection. The same goes for me: In my freshman year, I was initially quieter, but getting myself in a theatre class made an impact on my confidence by strengthening my speaking skills and body language.

It’s important to remember that you don’t need to be the star of the show to be involved in the arts. Behind-the-scenes roles are just as valuable and offer great opportunities to learn and contribute. One of the most rewarding aspects of the arts at Lawrenceville is the sense of community they foster. The arts don’t just embrace talented students; they welcome those who love connecting with others who share a passion for creative expression. By getting involved in the arts, you’ll be joining a supportive network of students, teachers, and mentors who are all eager to help you succeed while you share the joy of artistic expression. All you have to do is reach out and put yourself out there to discover the artist within you.