WHAT IS WINTER GUARD?
Winter Guard is exactly the same thing as Color Guard; which is a performance art. We visually bring music to life through dancing, acting and other interpretive movement with the use of flags, rifles, other equipment and props. The main difference between the two is that Winter Guard is done indoors and to prerecorded music. We step it up a notch by creating our own show utilizing basic and advanced skills in dance, theater and our equipment. We are a part of the Pacific Performing Arts Association (PPA) competitive circuit.  We take our creativity to the next level while choreographing and designing our own show. We participate in Winter Guard competitions and we also perform with the marching band at parades.

Although we have a competitive goal, we are not competitive when it comes to auditions. We are willing to offer a team position to any student that shows zeal and commitment to learning all aspects of our program (dance, act, spin) along with committing to our rehearsal and performance schedule. Every team member has a purpose within our shows. When one is missing because they don't know their part, it throws off the balance and the whole team suffers. Students will only be able to learn and progress in their skills if they attend all rehearsals.

WHO CAN JOIN OHHS WINTER GUARD?
All students who will be in grades 9-12 within the Oak Harbor High School School District are able to join.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DOES THE WINTER GUARD USE?
Aluminum flagpoles that are 6 feet long
Silks (flags) that can be as long 70 inches
Wooden rifles that are 37.5 inches long
Sabres that are 36 inches long
And anything else we want to add to our show

What do we do with all of this?  We spin them, we do tricks with them, we toss them and we even throw them at each other. We incorporate rhythm, math and science to execute precise movement and technique. Our equipment and props are always pushing the laws of physics with force and speed, action and reaction. All of this is with an incredible control of time. We get to express ourselves. Along with our creativity, we emotionally connect to the music and show you that emotion through our movement. We build confidence, in ourselves and together as a team.
And we want you to join our team! Here’s how…

COSTS
Winter Guard is free to join. All equipment is provided.
Some personal items, such as gloves, shoes, undergarments, etc., will need to be purchased by the student for their own use. Estimated cost: $80+/-.

LEARN MORE BEFORE WE BEGIN
We have an Informational Meeting for interested students and their parents/guardians. At this meeting, you can meet the instructors, current team members, see the equipment, learn about Winter Guard, the camp and ask any questions you may have.

Because this activity does require a lot of physical exertion, we need to make sure  parents/guardians are aware and allow their students to participate. An info packet that includes an “Audition Agreement” is available online and in the band room at OHHS. It must be signed by a parent/guardian along with the student. It must be submitted on or before the first day of Winter Guard Camp. 

No problem if you miss the meeting, you can scroll back up and get the info and online forms needed. We've got you covered!

STUDENTS, TRY IT FOR YOURSELF
Once the info meeting is done and paperwork is submitted, students will then attend our Winter Guard Camp. This is where you will come in to learn different equipment, dance and theater techniques and a short auditioning routine.

Students will learn alongside our returning fall Color Guard members and learn something different every day.  We will teach students everything they need to know and supply the equipment.

FOR CAMP, STUDENTS WILL NEED
To wear athletic attire that they can stretch and sweat in (NO jeans, no hoodies, no hats). Bring gym shoes, knee pads, & a water bottle. We also require that anyone with longer hair bring something (hair ties) to keep it off of their face. We don’t care if your hair is messy, you just need it off of your face and out of your way at all times. 

Required audition agreement & progress report form due by Tuesday, November 19th.

AUDITIONS
Auditions are held on the last day of camp. Everyone performs the routine together as a group unless otherwise requested. Results are given at the end of camp before you leave.

OTHER POSITIONS WITHIN THE TEAM:
- Team/Equipment Manager: Any student may join as a manager only position if desired. They will work alongside leaders and staff to ensure equipment is accounted for, properly stored, in good working condition, keep rack of inventory, help set up/break down props, help with communication whether verbal or with paperwork. Additional tasks may be added as needed. They will be required to attend auditions and all rehearsals unless otherwise directed. These students will learn foundations in equipment and dance. They will also be allowed to learn show choreography when time permits. If this student is capable of balancing both manager position and performing, they may be added to the show. This is done on a case-by-case basis.
- Public Relations Liaison: Any student may add on the Public Relations Liaison position if desired. They will work alongside leaders and staff in creating content for website and/or social media platforms. They will record videos, take photos during rehearsals and events using personal cell phone and/or camera. They will also take notes over what was done in rehearsals/events in order produce written correspondence, design flyers and/or posters for sharing online and/or in-person marketing. Additional tasks may be added as needed.

IF YOU ARE ACCEPTED
You will need to return for your first meeting with a parent/guardian and rehearsal on November 25th. A schedule will be provided for you.
Here is the current tentative schedule (December 2, 2024 - May 5, 2025):

Mondays: 1:30pm - 4:00pm OR 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Tuesdays: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wednesdays/Thursdays: 2:30pm - 5:30pm or 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Fridays: 2:30pm - 5:30pm or 6:00pm  - 8:00pm

2025 Performance Schedule - Required Attendance
January 25, 2025: Virtual Evals in Oak Harbor
March 15, 2025: Competition in Ferndale
March 29, 2025: Competition in Wenatchee - Championships
April 25, 2025:  Winter Guard Showcase at OHHS
May 2, 2025: Whidbey Island Culture Fest Parade in Oak Harbor