Mondays with Mike: Theatre Week at PCA
Stories That Shape Hearts and Voices
Dear PCA Community,
As we move through Parent–Teacher Conferences and begin the second quarter, I want to thank you for the partnership and prayer that make PCA such a vibrant place of learning and faith. Your encouragement at home helps shape the confidence and joy you will hear in your children’s voices this week.
This week highlights one of the most joyful parts of school life—our fall theatre productions. Watching our students step onto the stage reminds me that education is about more than grades or skills; it is about courage, creativity, and calling. Theatre helps form these qualities as students learn to collaborate, take risks, and offer their gifts for God’s glory.
Both of this week’s short podcasts capture that spirit beautifully. You will hear laughter, reflection, and genuine joy as students talk about what they are learning through the arts at PCA. Together, these productions remind us that every stage—literal or figurative—is a place to glorify God.
See you at the shows!
Mike Runey
Head of School
Portsmouth Christian Academy
Middle School Production: A Play With Words
Written by Peter Bloedel – Directed by Ms. Vanessa Fillion
A witty comedy where words come alive, A Play With Words follows “Scribe” as she tries to finish a play—only to find that her own characters (“Me,” “Myself,” “I,” and “You”) refuse to cooperate. In this short conversation, our Middle School cast reflects on humor, teamwork, and faith in the creative process.
Hear Middle Schoolers speak with depth and delight about how laughter, faith, and excellence belong together at PCA.
Key Takeaways
- Theatre builds confidence and community, helping students create joyfully under pressure.
- Ms. Fillion models grace-filled leadership—holding students to high standards with warmth and patience.
- Students describe giving their best performance “for God,” not for perfection or applause.
- The experience strengthens empathy, perseverance, and joy—hallmarks of PCA’s mission and values.
- Live theatre reminds us that growth happens in real time—and sometimes through mistakes.
Upper School Production: It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Adapted by Joe Landry – Directed by Ms. Melissa Weisberg
Our Upper School performers bring a beloved story to life as a 1940s radio broadcast—complete with sound effects, vintage microphones, and the heart of a community gathered around timeless truth. In this podcast, students share how the play’s message of purpose, grace, and connection shapes their own understanding of faith and calling.
In just 18 minutes, hear how PCA’s theatre program shapes wisdom, empathy, and spiritual depth in our high school students.
Key Takeaways
- Theatre builds confidence and community, helping students create joyfully under pressure.
- Ms. Fillion models grace-filled leadership—holding students to high standards with warmth and patience.
- Students describe giving their best performance “for God,” not for perfection or applause.
- The experience strengthens empathy, perseverance, and joy—hallmarks of PCA’s mission and values.
- Live theatre reminds us that growth happens in real time—and sometimes through mistakes.
To hear past episodes, share with your loved ones and friends, follow, and even review us, check out our PCA Podcast on these platforms:
