Anne-Marie Roberts (“AMR”) has devoted her time to shaping and inspiring students in the theatre department.
“I was part of the team that was tasked with creating Skyline back in 2005.” AMR says, talking about how she’s been a part of this community ever since the beginning.
Kids come into the theatre program looking for a friendly environment and to meet new people. AMR has impacted theatre and this school in a huge and positive way: theatre kids meet so many people and leave with a lifelong family from troop 7400.
“I wanted to join a club freshman year, and [theatre] seemed like a pretty big one that was always doing something and a good way to meet people,” Elena Gery (‘26) says, reflecting on why she joined theatre.
AMR has been an inspiration to all who walk through the doors, either it be her classroom or the auditorium getting set for an upcoming play. Throughout her time here at Skyline, she has directed many stage productions that many people have loved, watching and working in.
“My favorite [play] that we’ve put on stage is probably Hadestown. I think it’s like the best thing that we’ve done in recent history,” say veteran Skyline actor Leif TenBrink (‘25). “Clue was absolutely fantastic to work on. It’s just so quirky and weird, I love that one.”
Roberts is a beloved member of the Skyline community as well as a well known person and role model in the theatre world. She earned her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan in Theater and Communication Arts, then went on to pursue her graduate degrees from both the American Conservatory Theater Acting and the University of Northern Colorado in Theater Education. Her expertise in theatre has helped guide people learn about the art, as well as valuable life skills. Skyline will miss collaborating and working with her.
“It’s been great, I’ve learned a lot from her,” says auditorium manager Lenny Dale. “She’s been patient and instructive, and she’s helped me a lot.”
Roberts will be greatly missed throughout all the school. From helping kids find their voices on stage to simply just being there to listen. Teaching high schoolers and helping kids find their light and passion for stage productions.
“Theatre takes all of my creative loves and puts it into one lovely package. Theatre is about telling stories, theatre is life.” Roberts says, giving more insight into why she loves theatre, and why she dedicated so much of her life to it, to helping others too.
This chapter of her life is coming to a close, and we are sad to see her go but we wish her luck on her pursuits during retirement.
“I am going to start by completely organizing and cleaning my house, think Marie Kondo. I also want to travel. My first trip is planned for September through October,” she said.
Next year without AMR is going to take some getting used to. “It was upsetting to hear about AMR retiring because of everything she has done for the theatre program,” says Simone Dalton (‘26) “It will take a bit of a transition period to get used to new leadership next year, but I’m excited for what’s to come.”
