After nearly three decades of directing and inspiring students, theater teacher Nina Lynn concluded her journey with New Trier High School last year, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. Under her direction, New Trier’s theater program has earned a strong reputation for its high-quality performances and tight-knit community. From directing plays such as “Our Town” to sponsoring productions like “Lagniappe Potpourri,” Lynn left a remarkable impact on New Trier. 

Now, Adam Sherman has joined New Trier as the new theater teacher. He will be teaching courses Theatre Two: Acting Workshop/Introduction to Acting and Theatre 3: Advanced Acting Techniques, directing the winter play, “Arsenic and Old Lace,” as well as acting as a co-sponsor for Comedy Club. Taking on a role once held by someone so beloved comes with responsibility, but Sherman is eager to honor the program’s history while helping it evolve for the future.

Sherman, a Deerfield High School graduate, first fell in love with theater in grade school before pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Performance at Chapman University in California. After college, Sherman spent several years in Los Angeles working on film and theater projects. Eventually he decided to come back home to the Chicago area.

“I just missed the Midwest vibe and the genuineness here,” Sherman says. “I still love visiting L.A., but I’m happy to be back.”

Returning to Chicago rekindled Sherman’s passion for education. Inspired by his own high school theater teacher and mentor, he earned a secondary education license in theater from Elmhurst University. After student teaching at Highland Park High School, Sherman went on to teach at Waukegan High School and Rich Township Highschool before joining New Trier this year.

“My high school theater experience was so formative and special,” Sherman says. “Being able to give students a space where they feel accepted, supported and alive when they perform…that’s why I’m here.”

Sherman, while new to the staff, is quite familiar with New Trier. His father, Dr. Rich Sherman, graduated from New Trier in 1973 and has worked as the football team’s doctor for nearly 40 years.

“[Dr. Rich Sherman] speaks so highly of his time here, and a few years ago, he even gave the alumni graduation speech,” Sherman says. “Working on that speech with him, I got to hear first hand why New Trier is so special, and now, being here myself, I see it everyday.”

Having had the opportunity to see New Trier shows like “The Man Who Came to Dinner” and “Noises Off,” Sherman was incredibly impressed with the top-notch execution and dedication demonstrated by everyone involved.

“Just the level of commitment that is seen on stage and the quality of production and work that goes into it…this is next level,” Sherman says.

Another feature of New Trier’s theater program that stands out to Sherman is the encouraging, loving environment it fosters. 

“The environment is so supportive. It’s such a great energy,” Sherman says. “The camaraderie and the passion that the students have did not take long to notice.”

For the time being, Sherman isn’t rushing to make drastic changes to the already excellent program. Instead, he’s determined to perfect and improve whatever he can.

“I’m not here to put my stamp on things just to make changes,” Sherman says. “My goal right now is to learn the culture, honor what’s been built, and figure out where new ideas can enhance what’s already so strong.”

Sherman understands the responsibility that comes with leading New Trier’s theater program. Having been heavily inspired by his own high school theater teacher, he recognizes the kind of impact teachers can make. Besides providing students with technical expertise, Sherman aims to teach useful, universal skills that’ll last students a lifetime.

“Even if you don’t become an actor or pursue theater after high school, the skills we learn on stage—collaboration, creativity and confidence—are ones you’ll carry through life,” Sherman says.