A LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR- MARK SWEZEY
​

Welcome to Shawnee Mission South's Theatre Department Website!
​I cannot believe that this is my 12th year back at SMS! Without exaggeration, every day
that I walk into the building, the energy,
enthusiasm, and memories are somewhat overwhelming. The challenges and
opportunities to make a difference is truly a beautiful thing! We
should never underestimate it.
In 2005, I left South for another opportunity to manage and direct a theatre program. I
returned in 2012. The
art, dreams and enthusiasm that exists inside of these young adults has not changed at
all. 
The Shawnee Mission South Performing Arts Wing, which for us includes the
auditorium, the new Flex Theatre, dressing rooms, shop,
costume, and props workspaces, have become our new classrooms. If you have not
been back to South in a while, the new Performing Arts Wing is quite impressive. 
This incredible State of the Art Performing Arts Wing wascompleted, during the
pandemic, while students were in remote learning. As challenging as the pandemic was
for the Arts, we were able to produce five productions, four of which were produced
through online
streaming. The fifth production was produced live, with limiting seating in the new Flex
Theatre. The new wing is definably a “game changer” for the Arts at SMS!
In addition to the new Flex Theater, a much-needed overhaul of the sound, lighting, and
A/V systems took place during the pandemic, in the auditorium. The old sound, lighting,
and a/v equipment were
gutted and replaced with high quality equipment.
Students involved in SMS Theatre take their work seriously. We love the quote “Love
the Art in yourself, not yourself in the Art” We
believe that the Arts can make a difference in this crazy world. The favorite part of my
job is encouraging kids to discover the best part of
themselves through participation in the Arts. We preach to always try your best and not
be afraid of failure. 
​A couple of years ago, a former student sent me a picture of a poster hanging in her
daughter’s playroom. It asks the question, “What if I
Fall?” and the answer is” Oh, But My Darling, What if You Fly?” This is what we have
always been about! Please visit us often and watch us soar!