Some of the most important lessons taught at Villa Victoria Academy don’t come from a textbook — they come from being on stage. Although one should always maintain a strong relationship with one’s studies while in high school, it is also important to balance extracurricular activities in one’s life. For arts-loving students, Villa Victoria Academy presents many opportunities to perform throughout the year, including our annual Christmas Concert and Spring Concert, Spring Musical, Drama Nights, Talent Show, singing at school liturgies and multiple coffeehouses throughout the school year.

Having a strong stage presence is essential to any performer, but that skill can be used and extended far beyond the stage. Performing teaches students how to speak confidently and present ideas distinctly. The crucial part of this is that these skills are directly applicable to a classroom setting. At Villa, students are taught to speak with purpose and carry themselves with confidence, qualities that will linger far beyond graduation.

Every performance requires rehearsals. Rehearsals teach Villa girls the importance of commitment and responsibility, values that prepare them for future academic and professional success. A Villa girl stays committed to her responsibilities, and consecutive rehearsals build stamina. Being part of a cast, especially ensemble work, builds character and collaboration skills.

Rooted in Villa’s supportive and foundational values, every student involved in the spring musical is given a role, a unique aspect of our program. The saying “no role is too big or too small” really comes to life at Villa. Performances here remind us that success comes from working together and respecting each person’s contribution. This undoubtedly reflects Villa’s strong sense of community.

Overall, Villa Victoria Academy’s arts program does more than develop talented performers. It shapes confident, compassionate, and committed young women through performing arts. These hidden lessons are what make Villa truly special, and they are why Villa Victoria Academy continues to inspire students to grow into strong women of character.

Written by Raquel Richardson ‘28.

Raquel has performed as Princess Winifred in Once Upon a Mattress at Villa Victoria Academy and as Hunk/Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz at Villa Victoria Academy. She has also appeared in productions at Kelsey Theater, participates annually in the Princeton University Chapel Christmas Eve Service, and serves as a youth worship leader at Princeton Alliance Church.