Shubert Theater Program

SHA students let their talents shine in our award-winning theater program. Originally called the “operetta,” the musical is a SHA tradition that has taken place each year since the first students enrolled at SHA in 1946. Under the direction of theater veteran Mary Lee Delaney, our annual musical lights up the legendary stage of the Shubert Theater in New Haven, where students work alongside theater professionals on performance, set design, lighting, sound, and costuming.

Starting with the fantastic 50th Anniversary year production of Show Boat in 1995, held in fittingly dramatic fashion at the Shubert Theater in New Haven, the musical now enjoys a run of 3 performances to sell-out crowds. Our musical theater program has been recognized with awards from the Broadway High School Theatre Guild and the prestigious HALO awards.

“Theater is a collaborative art form that teaches the value of collective participation. Bringing the show to the Shubert theater allows our students to heighten their theater training by collaborating with professionals on state of the art equipment. Participation in the musical encourages each student to use her voice, trust others, and create results. These skills are transferable to the classroom, the work force, and the community. While some of our strongest performers have pursued degrees in communications and the performing arts, others have used their skills in pursuits ranging from medical school to business and finance.”

- MaryLee Delaney, Theater Director

Our most recent performance:

Based on the popular Disney Channel Original Movies, Disney's Descendants: The Musical is a brand-new musical jam-packed with comedy, adventure, Disney characters, and hit songs from the films!

Imprisoned on the Isle of the Lost – home of the most infamous villains who ever lived – the teenaged children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil have never ventured off the island… until now. When the four troublemakers are sent to attend prep school alongside the children of beloved Disney heroes, they have a difficult choice to make: should they follow in their parents’ wicked footsteps or learn to be good?

Recent Musical/Operetta Roster

Musical/Operetta Roster Since 1948

Back to Excelsior Opportunities

Connect With Us

Student Experience