In line with a broader, more holistic approach, extracurricular activities like theater are extensions of the classroom, teaching life lessons in different settings.

Linden Hall School for Girls' production of "Alice by Heart" is a living, breathing life lesson. If they looks closely enough, members of the audience will witness actresses growing up right before their very eyes.

"There are so many learning opportunities that come from being involved with the theater program," said Denny Foreman, the artistic director of "Alice by Heart." "I want (performers) to learn poise and confidence. Most, if not all, of our performers will go on to professional careers where they will have to do presentations in front of groups of people. If students are involved with this, we see the confidence develop. Every time I see it, it's like, 'Yes, this program is working.' Learning time management is also important. You've got to be good at managing time if you're hoping to be successful."

Linden Hall will present "Alice by Heart" on Thursday, April 11; Friday, April 12; and Saturday, April 13, all at 7 p.m. at the campus' Snavely Family Theater, 212 E. Main St., Lititz. While admission to the performance is free, attendees are encouraged to call 717-626-8512 to reserve tickets.

"When the curtain goes up, there's a certain amount of fear and excitement," said Foreman. "When it comes down, there's elation and tiredness. There's a lot of stress for everyone involved. Individually, we're learning how to handle that stress. But at the end of the day, everybody's exhausted."

There are a total of 25 Linden Hall students involved with the production of "Alice by Heart" - 13 cast members and 12 members of the pit orchestra and stage and technical crews. Senior Sara Holler plays the role of Alice Spencer.

" 'Alice by Heart' is difficult and includes themes that many of us never imagined we would be working with at this level," said Sara. "It's empowering message of embracing growth and maturity has definitely brought us together as a cast and crew. We are so excited to perform for the community."

"There are some adult themes," said Foreman of the musical from Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater. "It is somewhat based on 'Alice in Wonderland' and it's about a group of people hiding in London tube stations during the blitzkrieg of World War II. One of the characters has 'Alice in Wonderland' memorized. She tells the tale to help everyone else through the nightmare of war."

Linden Hall began its work on "Alice by Heart" by learning the script before Christmas. Over the last three months, the cast and crew have been adding to, tweaking and fine-tuning the performance on afternoons after school.

"This is by far the most difficult musical I've ever attempted," said Foreman. "It demands a huge amount of time, and some of the performers are playing multiple roles. These are highly intelligent and highly motivated students who are involved in other programs, everything from athletics to clubs and community service. They are well-rounded young women. It always amazes me how engaged these drama students are."