Adonica Schultz Aune

Seniors Rule: Grounded Theory in Extracurricular Theatre Adonica Schultz Aune

A case study approach was used to explore the interactions of students during an extracurricular educational theatre production. The investigation explored the interaction among students and the role of the play in that interaction. A strong hierarchical community in the tradition of classroom educational hierarchy of age order was found as a hidden curriculum in this activity. Although hegemony was not an objective of the production, seniors were granted priority and powerful leadership positions in lead roles in the play and in posts of responsibility in work groups. In the course of rehearsals, age-ranked cliques emerged causing separation and inequity. Hegemony was encouraged, enhanced, and developed for the benefit of senior students by their drama and music directors. Seniors Rule may indicate how the hierarchical system is learned and upheld in a capitalistic society.