Arts and Leisure

On October 3, artist and filmmaker Jamie Diamond’s “Constructed Family Portraits” portfolio premiered at the Paul Mellon Arts Center (PMAC). While these family portraits depict close relationships, they actually contain an interesting twist: all of the subjects Diamond chose to photograph were actually strangers brought together in foreign locations.

Above the fireplace of Choate’s Dining Hall, looking out at the senior section, hangs a painting that has quietly borne witness to over a century of community meals, conversations, and traditions. The mural, The Passing of Arthur by Robert Van Vorst Sewell (1860-1924), was gifted to the School in 1914 and now serves as a work of art, a symbol of values, and a living reminder of the school’s past.

Choate’s music ensembles are preparing to take their talents to the stage. From jazz tunes to symphonic masterpieces, this year’s fall musical performances will begin on Friday, October 17, at 7:15 p.m. in Colony Hall. 

Many Choate students step onto campus with little or no dance experience — but that doesn’t stop them from finding a rhythm. Through open workshops, beginner-friendly clubs, and a welcoming culture, Choate offers students a chance to explore movement in ways that go far beyond the classroom.

The Student Activities Department works hard to ensure there’s never a dull moment on campus, whether it’s hosting a movie night, a Chipotle expedition, or even a festive celebration for National String Cheese Day. Among the most anticipated events each year are the annual Student Activities Center (SAC) dances and formal balls, which bring the community together for music, laughter, and a much-needed break from academics.

On May 2 in Gelb Theater, Choate welcomed James Smith III — comedian, writer, and co-creator of Netflix’s Astronomy Club known as James III — to perform a one-man show that wove stand-up comedy, storytelling, impressions, and deeply personal reflections...

Live tunes by the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra (WSO)  chased away the gloomy clouds and turned its 50th anniversary concert into a memorable night. Held at Ann and George Colony Hall (Colony Hall) on April 19, the milestone concert wasn’t just a performance but a celebration of legacy and WSO’s longtime partnership with the School...

As one of the most influential communities on campus, acapella has added spirited and joyful events to the Arts Department’s concert schedule. The diversity among Choate’s five acapella groups has allowed seasoned singers and beginners to get involved in music and have fun...

As we approach the peak of spring, shaking off those winter blues can be tough. Whether it’s the struggle to get rid of unnecessary stress or the annoyances of unpredictable weather, everybody needs a pick-me-up once in a while. Compiled here is a pool of movie musicals that are sure to melt away your winter term frostbite and freshen up your mood for the spring... 

A proficient blacksmith, co-producer of his own show, and Acting III, Honors student, Connor Zeitlin ’25 is among Choate’s most artistically ambitious students. Known for his theatrical flair and friendliness, Zeitlin’s independent arts projects stretch across several areas of the arts...

Behind the scenes of Choate Symphony Orchestra’s exhilarating performances, the Dance Company’s lyrical concerts, and the vibrant theater productions, Choate’s newest Arts Department Coordinators, Mrs. Ashlee Hyatt and Ms. Andrea Serna-Pedraza, work to ensure that students can showcase their talents on a well-organized stage... 

What does it mean to compose with the heart? To feel harmony as an emotion and create music that leaves an audience in tears? On April 17, internationally celebrated Japanese composer Yukiko Nishimura hosted several workshops with members of the School’s ensembles to delve into these questions...

Listeners excitedly awaited open-mic poetry and musical performances, forgetting all about their Winter Term-End Experiences and spring break plans: this was The Lit’s annual Launch Party...

The performers had a memorable spring break filled with music and culture in Greece...

Every spring, the Paul Mellon Arts Center (PMAC) stage becomes a canvas for storytelling through movement.