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Welcome to the IH Arts Conservatory Weekly Newsletter!
In this week’s edition of The Director’s Chair, I sit down with Madeleine Lanphear and Arpad Lallement, cast members from our final high school theatre production of the year, Sondheim on Sondheim. They offer a behind-the-scenes look at this one-of-a-kind production—sharing what the show is about, what audiences can expect, and why this experience is so different from anything we’ve done before.
This is not a traditional musical—it’s a profound, deeply personal journey through the work of Stephen Sondheim, one of Broadway’s most brilliant composers. What makes this production especially unique is its scale: a small but mighty group of student performers and crew, working closely together to bring something incredibly powerful to life.
With a limited cast, every voice matters. Our students are taking on some of the most challenging music ever written for the stage—complex, nuanced, and emotionally rich—and doing so with striking honesty and vulnerability. There’s nowhere to hide in a show like this, and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling. The result is raw, authentic storytelling that draws the audience in from the very first moment.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated student crew is shaping every detail of the experience, proving that a small team can create something truly extraordinary. And in an exciting opportunity, a student musician performs in the pit alongside professional players, navigating Sondheim’s intricate score as part of a truly collaborative artistic effort.
This is the kind of project that reflects what the Arts Conservatory is all about—creating space for students to take creative risks, collaborate in meaningful ways, and engage in work that is both deeply personal and artistically ambitious. Whether on stage, behind the scenes, in the studio, or in other creative spaces across the Conservatory, these experiences are at the heart of what we strive to provide for all of our students.
Performances run April 16–18 at 7:00 PM, and tickets are just $15. This is an intimate theatrical experience you won’t want to miss—and with limited seating, tickets will go quickly. Be there to witness something truly special.
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IHHS
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Thursday, April 16: 7:00 pm HS Spring Musical Revue, Sondheim on Sondheim
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Friday, April 17: 7:00 pm HS Spring Musical Revue, Sondheim on Sondheim
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Saturday, April 18: 7:00 pm HS Spring Musical Revue, Sondheim on Sondheim
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Wednesday, April 22- Sunday, April 26: HS Choir Competition Trip
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Thursday, April 30: 5:30-7:00 pm HS Spring Art Show Opening
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Thursday, April 30: 7:00 pm HS Choir Concert
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Friday, May 1:10:30 am Arts and Military Signing Day
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Tuesday, May 5: 7:00 pm HS Band & Orchestra Concert
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Friday, May 8: HS Theatre Banquet
IHMS
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Thursday, April 30: MS Art Show at Green Acres
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Thursday, May 14: 6:00 pm MS Music Showcase
IHES
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Tuesday, April 21: 6:00 pm ES Choir Concert @IHES Gymatoriam
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Thursday, May 7: 6:00 pm 3rd Grade Performances @IHES Gymatoriam
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Tuesday, May 12: 6:00 pm 5th Grade Band and Orchestra Concert
IHPS
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Thursday, April 23: Extra Special Night
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Monday, May 4: 6:00 pm Kindergarten Music Presentation @IHPS Auditorium
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Tuesday, May 5: 6:00 pm Kindergarten Music Presentation @IHPS Auditorium
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Wednesday, May 6: 6:00 pm Kindergarten Music Presentation @IHPS Auditorium
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THIS WEEKEND ONLY!
SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM
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Join us for a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience as Indian Hill High School presents Sondheim on Sondheim, an innovative musical revue celebrating the work of legendary composer Stephen Sondheim.
April 16, 17, and 18
All performances at 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:30 PM)
This year’s production is uniquely staged “in the round,” meaning the audience will be seated on stage, surrounding the performers for an intimate, immersive experience unlike anything we’ve done before. You won’t just watch the show—you’ll be part of it.
Because of this special staging, seating is extremely limited with only 125 seats available per performance.
Tickets: $15 each
Festival Seating: While tickets are reserved in advance, seating is first come, first served within the performance space.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience Sondheim’s music up close in a truly unforgettable setting. Reserve your seats early—and plan to arrive early for the best seating options. This show will sell out quickly!
Click here to purchase tickets!
| | The IHMS Orchestra was wonderfully represented at our Solo and Ensemble competition, with 16 students performing solos and 24 students participating in ensembles. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, preparation, and the courage it takes to perform both individually and collaboratively at this level. Their hard work truly paid off, as our students earned an outstanding 18 Superior ratings and 7 Excellent ratings overall. These results reflect not only their musical talent, but also their commitment to excellence and growth. Congratulations to all of the students involved for representing Indian Hill with such pride and artistry! | | Indian Hill Primary School & High School | | Indian Hill Elementary School | | Indian Hill Middle School | |
The Red Letter Delivery
The Red Letter Delivery is a monthly art subscription that brings the beauty of Indian Hill student artwork directly to your mailbox—delivered in our signature red envelope—for just $8 per month.
Each month, subscribers will receive a professionally printed 5x7 piece of original student art, paired with a personal note from the student artist sharing the inspiration behind their work. It’s a meaningful blend of creativity and storytelling—offering a tangible connection to the imagination, voice, and heart of our students.
All proceeds from The Red Letter Delivery will be reinvested into the Indian Hill Arts Conservatory, directly supporting arts programming and creative opportunities for students across our district. This project is generously sponsored by the Indian Hill Foundation.
Our debut edition, which recently reached the mailboxes of subscribers, celebrates Home for the Holidays and features a stunning portrayal of the Cincinnati skyline by IHHS student artist Norah Condorodis. Her artwork captures warmth, nostalgia, and family history—an especially poignant tribute inspired by her grandfather and great uncle, whose stories are woven into the spirit of the city.
As I shared in the announcement,“This is more than an art subscription—it’s a tangible connection to our students’ imagination and heart. Each red envelope is a moment of surprise and delight, and the artwork inside makes a truly special gift for someone who loves both mail and art.”
Subscriptions are open now, with the first delivery arriving in January 2026. Subscriptions may also be purchased as gifts and mailed anywhere—making The Red Letter Delivery a thoughtful and meaningful present for the art lovers in your life.
I hope you’ll join us in celebrating this beautiful new way to support and experience the arts at Indian Hill—one red envelope at a time.
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Save the Date!
Registration is open... click here
Would you like to be a sponsor? We would love to have you.
Get more information by emailing brian.phelps@ihsd.us
Ready to volunteer for the event? Email amy.clark@ihsd.us for more information.
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Please note: Activities presented within this section of the newsletter are not sponsored by or affiliated with the District.
Participation is entirely optional and at parents'/guardians' discretion. We are sharing this opportunity because it may be of interest to families and offers programming/events not provided by the District.
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Indian Hill Schools and the Indian Hill Arts Conservatory is excited to share a new opportunity for IHHS student musicians through our ongoing partnership with the Cincinnati Academy of Performing Arts (CAPA) — offering private, in-school voice instruction during the school day.
This opportunity is designed to enhance our students’ musical experience and provide additional pathways for those interested in growing their skills. Through high-quality, individualized instruction with experienced CAPA instructors, students will be able to refine their technique, build confidence, and receive personalized coaching — all while remaining fully engaged in their school schedule.
Private lessons will:
- Take place during the school day at designated times
- Be taught by experienced CAPA instructors
- Support students currently enrolled in school music ensembles, as well as those seeking additional vocal training
This offering reflects our continued commitment to providing meaningful, high-level arts experiences that support student passion, growth, and excellence.
Additional details regarding scheduling, fees, and registration will be shared soon. If you are interested in learning more, please feel free to reach out.
Kelly Walker - CAPA Program Director
Amy Clark - Indian Hill Arts and Activities Director
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Follow Indian Hill Arts & Activities on X and Instagram!
@IHSD_Arts
Amy Clark
Arts & Activities Director
Indian Hill School District
Amy.Clark@ihsd.us
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