2020 School Magazine

CO CURRICULUM DRAMA

T he year was off to a flying start with the Senior Drama Production underway and The Drama Studio launching its after school improvisation workshop series. It was wonderful to see so many new and enthusiastic girls re-connecting or joining the Drama community for the very first time. However, COVID-19 restrictions brought disruptions to our beloved and popular Co- curricular Drama Program. There were a few disappointments—such as the cancellation of the Senior Drama Production. The Year 7 and 8 Drama production was also not able to be staged. Upon returning to a ‘new normal’ though, the resourcefulness and indomitable spirit of the Drama Department and its thespian followers meant that other new and exciting projects were borne. In the face of adversity and uncertainty about audience allowances and performance constraints, the old saying certainly rang true … the show must go on! Our club programs bounced back stronger than ever. Grammar Dance classes saw a large number of girls join, led by a new choreographer and performance troupe full of talented and passionate dancers.

We were delighted that the Year 9 and 10 Drama Production— Trailer by Vanessa Bates—was able to be staged. The actors were very excited to be able to work creatively on this contemporary coming-of-age story. There were some relatable themes of isolation and self-discovery explored. The play is a heart-warming story that follows a young adult, Jez, as she navigates a cusp of change in her isolated community. As Jez yearns for a deviation from the mundane, Trailer invites its audience to break the mould and consider hope in the most unexpected of places. The production was warmly received by audiences, albeit in a restricted capacity and they once again extended their knowledge and understanding of theatre in this rich experience. So, despite the challenges that the year has presented, the drama spirit and stoicism has prevailed and our girls are still devising, performing and collaborating—a wonderful celebration of talent and creativity! Jessica Mangos (12G) and Lara Triscott (12H) DRAMA CAPTAINS

This is a great opportunity for girls to share their love of jazz and contemporary dance in a fun and social setting. Our inclusive Drama Club, The Drama Studio, launched an exciting Semester program with two offerings. A specialised monologue workshop series, facilitated by guest youth arts leader/theatre maker, Lucas Stibbard, focused on honing performance skills through approaches to script. A filmed performance project was another offering for keens dramatists, exploring acting for screen, characterisation and ensemble action. Written and facilitated by Miss Folland, The Chronos Chronicles is set in a school in the year 2063, the short film follows groups of stereotypical characters as they travel back in time for a history assessment. Using a new time-travelling invention, a Chronos, the students must collect a quote from a famous female figure in history. The filmed drama is interactive, empowering the audience to choose the narrative journey at points throughout the story. The viewer decides which group of students to follow and whether they interfere with history or let it run its course!

THE DRAMA STUDIO

Drama Studio Semester 1—Improvisation Acting Workshops ‘Drama Studio is a place where you can express your love for drama and be surrounded by people that share the same interest as you (and your friends)’ – Gabriella Briggs (7G) ‘I have been participating in Drama Studio for two years, and during that time I’ve always loved the friendly and interactive community. The teachers are amazing and know how to make drama fun. I will definitely continue Drama Studio in my senior years.’ – Camille Cahill (10G) ‘I like Drama Studio because we play improvisation games where I have to think on the spot and develop my skills.’ – Ruby Harvey (9L) Drama Studio Semester 2—Filmed project ‘Drama Studio has been very dramatic! My role in the project was in the technical crew. I was tasked with recording sound, which means that I was in control of the microphone and responsible for capturing the actors’ dialogue.’ – Sree Bodla (7R) ‘It’s was almost like we were on the set of a movie! I played the role of an arty kid, which is funny because I am actually horrible at drawing and art. It was a really interesting process and very intriguing to gain insight into the film world. I enjoyed being part of this in-depth project.’ – Jaimee Jessop (7R)

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