By Shayla Terry:

Luverne High School has added theatre to its academic curriculum, and Grace Bailey has been chosen to spearhead the program.

Bailey a Bonifay, Florida native is a 2014 graduate of Troy University. She holds a bachelor of the arts in theatre, and minored in dance.

“I’ve been performing my whole life,” Bailey said.

“I grew up singing in churches. Theatre was my next step because I knew I loved to perform.”

LHS added theatre as a part of the advancement of the arts in the Crenshaw County School System.

“We had a goal to bring art, chorus and theatre to the schools,” Crenshaw County Superintendent Dr. Boyd English said.

“If we place an emphasis on the arts, it will produce more well-rounded students. I think that Grace Bailey is going to be fantastic at Luverne High.”

English says he wants Crenshaw County students to have equal or better educational opportunities as some of the more urban school systems in the state.

Bailey’s new position will be her first teaching opportunity.

“I’m so excited,” she said.

“I can’t wait to learn from them while they are learning from me.”

Even though it’s her first teaching job, Bailey says she’s no stranger to starting up a program.

“I’m from a small town that didn’t have a theatre department until I started high school,” Bailey said.

“I’ve been through the process of pioneering a program up, so it will kind of feel like I’m back at home.”

For the 2016-2017 school year, Bailey has plans of shows, cabarets, plus winter and spring activities. She encourages all students to take interest in the elective.

“Theater isn’t just about singing and dancing, and playing funny characters on stage,” Bailey said.

“Theatre teaches you about history and literature. You get in touch with yourself, and you get in touch with the world. Theatre is educational, but beyond just a school setting.”

Bailey also encourages the community to look forward to the events and to be as involved as possible.

“We will be doing a lot of community outreach because I can’t do it by myself, and the students can’t do it by themselves either,” she said.

“We would love their support and encouragement.”