Performing Arts at Stratford –
Excellence Takes Center Stage
Stratford Academy is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic environment that promotes creative learning and artistic excellence. From acting and musical theatre to lighting design and set construction, students have the opportunity to develop their interests and abilities, find their creative voice, and discover their full potential.

Theatre
Stratford Theatre gives students from Lower School through Upper School the chance to discover themselves through classes, performances, and technical theatre experiences. Whether you love the spotlight, prefer working behind the scenes, or want to try both, our annual shows offer something for everyone. Students build confidence, make lasting friendships, and learn real-world skills like collaboration and problem-solving.

Instrumental & Vocal Music
Within our band room and contemporary ensemble studio, students engage in enriching musical experiences that inspire curiosity and foster creative development. Our music program emphasizes comprehensive exposure to music history, theory, and performance. Instrumental and choral performances serve as cherished community events, providing opportunities to share their talents and celebrate their artistic achievements.
Henry Harding Tift IV Fine Arts Center and Auditorium
The 400-seat Henry Harding Tift IV Fine Arts Center and Auditorium opened in 1992 and provides young people with opportunities to develop and showcase their talents in theatre productions, choir, marching and symphonic band, and literary competitions. It includes the Virginia Parker Buzzell Gallery that showcases student art throughout the year.
Henry Harding Tift IV enjoyed the exercise of his imagination through an enthusiastic appreciation of the fine arts. Under his leadership, Stratford developed its commitment to institutional balance in academics, athletics and the arts. He is remembered as an enthusiastic and caring Head of School who cared deeply for his faculty and his students. He served the school joyously from 1977 until his death in 1997.