Drama Captain’s Column #1: Csende Balogh on Year 11 Drama in Term 1

Posted by Csende Balogh

Monologues/Directing

At the beginning of this year, the Year 11s were given a chance to both perform a monologue of their choice and direct somebody else within their class. Each student chose their own monologues that they wished to perform and were put into groups of two. Everybody was tasked with researching their partner’s monologue, the playwright, and the context of the play to better their understanding of the monologue itself. They were then given the chance to direct their partner and create their “director’s vision” (what they would like the piece to look like if given unlimited resources). Although different stages and types of theatre couldn’t be used, the students were given a chance to create props, wear a costume, and choose simple lighting for the performance. The final performance was on the 28th of September and was performed in the Black Box to anybody who wished to attend.

Shakespeare and Stage Combat

The Year 11s recently concluded their unit on stage combat and Shakespeare. Throughout the unit, the students were taught ten different stage combat moves, including the slap, hook, choke, hair drag, and more. In addition to learning these movements, each student also had to create a “stage combat manual”. This could be in any format that the students wished (video, photos, etc.), and was to teach the reader/viewer about each of the moves learned in stage combat, as well as provide safety tips and advice on positioning. After creating their manuals, the Year 11s were challenged with performing the opening scene of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” in groups of five to six. These pieces were presented during Secondary lunchtime on the 5th and 6th of December, and were staged in public areas throughout the school. Before and during these performances, the students were made to consider the advantages and disadvantages of performing to an open and public space, and reflected on how well it worked out.

by Csende Balogh

DP Theatre Class of 2019 on their experience at ISTA TaPS

Posted by Carla Acepcion

On Friday, Dec 1st, our Y12 DP Theatre class attended ISTA TaPS Hong Kong at King George V school. Our students, Nicole Woo, Ethan Godinho, Abby Owen, Leticia Ayres and Hanna Swedenklef represented DC at the intensive three-day workshop with their usual unbroken enthusiasm and positivity, taking part in workshops on Wayang (Indonesian puppet theatre), Artaud, ensemble work and much more. The opportunity to meet and collaborate with their DP Theatre peers from across Hong Kong proved beneficial both in the context of the course and beyond, with the students feeling they had made new friends for life. Here’s what our students had to say about their experience in their own words:

“There is so much I want to say about TaPs and how much I loved every second of it, but I’ll keep it short. Spending 3 days in a supportive environment surrounded by people with the same level of interest in theatre really boosted my confidence and skills as a performer. From learning the techniques of Wayang (Indonesian puppet theatre) to creating shocking pieces inspired by Artaud to working with students outside of DC, I was exposed to specific areas of theatre that will greatly benefit my progress in the IB theatre course. It’s so hard to choose my favourite moment from the past few days but I’ve got to say each session we had was extremely engaging and fun, exceeding my expectations by a mile. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to make friends and I have formed strong bonds that I hope will last forever – there’s a special place in my heart for every single one of the members in my ensemble and our inside jokes. It’s only been a few days but I can’t wait for TaPs 2018! There is no doubt in my mind that TaPs was the highlight of my year, and I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity.”– Nicole Woo

“If I learned anything from TaPs, it is to “own your passion and do what you love.” Over the course of 3 days at ISTA TaPs, I cannot express the amount of gratitude I have towards the administrators and anyone involved in creating these workshops. I am confident to say that I have grown as a theatre student. I have come out of this experience with a plethora of new skills and ideas that I can implement into my future projects. We had the opportunity to learn Wayang (Indonesian puppet theatre), an intense version of the 7 Levels of Tension taught by George Mann, and old and new techniques taught by our ensemble leaders. Throughout the workshops, I have learned so many new skills that will help me improve as a performer. I have never been so grateful and excited to be in a place that was so open and supportive about IB Theatre. It was so freeing to be open about my passion and finally feel like I was accepted fully as a theatre student. I am also so grateful that my ensemble became very close within the first day and continued so have a close bond even outside ISTA. If anyone was unsure about going to ISTA, I would tell them to just go for it! It was such an amazing and memorable experience! Can’t wait for ISTA 2018!”– Abby Owen

“TaPS was a great experience for all of us as we were able to meet people our age from all parts of Hong Kong who had the same interests in theatre as we did. We were able to share our thoughts[on] what theatre meant to us and how we could use it not only for entertainment in today’s society. Our ensemble leaders were very passionate and had a bunch of fun workshops up their sleeves which made the weekend even better.”– Ethan Godinho

“I would say my experience at TaPS was extremely positive. This past weekend has been highly beneficial to me for the DP theatre course. I feel like I have learned so many valuable skills and lessons that will help me grow as both a performer and in my written tasks. This weekend has not only been a great learning experience but I have also had so much fun. I’ve absolutely loved meeting so many people that share the same passion for drama as I do and getting to collaborate with other DP theatre students across Hong Kong.”– Hanna Swedenklef

For more photos from the conference, check out this gallery!
You can find more information about ISTA & TaPS on their official website.

We would love to hear from you! If you would like to submit a review or other content please email:

Danielle Veilleux, Head of Drama: veilld1@dc.edu.hk
or
Paul McCracken, Drama Teacher: mccram1@dc.edu.hk
or
Carla Acepcion, Performing Arts Technician: acepcc1@dc.edu.hk

Photos from ISTA TaPS 2017

Posted by Carla Acepcion

This year’s ISTA TaPS was held on the weekend of Dec 1st – 3rd at King George V school. Check out some of the photos from the conference below:

We would love to hear from you! If you would like to submit a review or other content please email:

Danielle Veilleux, Head of Drama: veilld1@dc.edu.hk
or
Paul McCracken, Drama Teacher: mccram1@dc.edu.hk
or
Carla Acepcion, Performing Arts Technician: acepcc1@dc.edu.hk

Praise for ‘Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe’

Posted by Carla Acepcion

This year’s Secondary Production of ‘Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe’  closed on Nov 29th, 2017. Dealing with darker and more complex themes than in the years before, the play left audience members impressed both by the actors’ abilities onstage, and the effort from the crew that shone through lighting, sound, set and costume to create an atmosphere of tension that Poe’s works demand. We would like to share some of the reviews that we have received from our audience members below:

“Performance extraordinaire: If you didn’t manage to get to last week’s performance of Nightfall, then you missed something truly spectacular. I have to admit I went along wondering whether I would actually “enjoy” the show, however, I was completely mesmerised throughout. The impressive acting, costumes, set, sound effects and stage work combined to produce one of the best secondary productions I have ever seen. Congratulations and thanks to the many, many other people who were involved in some way.” – Mark Beach

“The overall impression was a powerful and cohesive combination of acting, sets, lighting, sound and costumes to create an atmosphere that brought Poe’s poems alive.” – Peter Lasscock

“Fabulous Performance. Congratulations, it was truly wonderful.” – Fiona Altoft

“I just wanted to write to say how impressed I was by the performance last night. The ability of our students to showcase performance abilities continues to go from strength to strength, and you got the very best out of them, particularly impressive given the complex and macabre nature of the text itself. Ethan in particular stood out to me as someone who has developed hugely from a strong starting point since I first saw him perform a few months ago, and really brought his character into 3-dimensional life through his physicality and understanding of the text. I would make similar observations about a number of students – the quality of their performances reflects the quality of input they have had from the staff around them.

The production design and technical management was also, as ever, superb – the house of cards was one of my favourite moments, and Siosi’s ‘shutting of the window’ was inch perfect in both concept and timing. The costumes were also brilliant – incredible creativity with black and white – and I loved the black onesies! Anyway, I could go on, but suffice it to say that I was inspired and enthused when I left school yesterday evening.” – James Smith

“Thanks so much for inviting us along to see Nightfall. It was amazing!” – Kylie Harrison

“Thank you for an exceptional evening. We were blown away by the talent at D.C.”– Claire Neal

“It was a real treat to see the final product of all the work you and the team put into this year’s production. Thank you to you and Paul for a brilliant tribute to darker mental conditions. It was a unique delivery of psychosis, fear, depression and more.

It felt like I could have been at a theatre performance in Central or even London.
I sent one of pics below to my film director friend and she curiously wanted to know where this great set and cast image came from!!!” – Natasha Clausen

“Do pardon my delay in commending you, the cast and crew for an absolutely mesmerizing night of entertainment, with the very professional portrayal of Edgar Alan Poe’s ‘Nightfall’. Normally not a great fan of anything to do with darkness, I was surprised as to how my eyes were totally glued to the set throughout, not wanting to miss anything. The actors, props, lighting, sound effects & make up were all so surprisingly professional and amazing for a production put up by high school students. Wow! Your professional training and connection with the students was highly evident in their ability to portray Poe’s madness to a crowd of different ages, abilities & understanding, who thoroughly enjoyed it. I am thankful and grateful that Ethan and all the Drama students have teachers to guide and teach them all the skills needed to put up an amazing show, and to enjoy the making of it. A pat on the back to all involved.” – Violette Godinho

We would love to hear your review! If you would like to submit a review please email:

Danielle Veilleux, Head of Drama: veilld1@dc.edu.hk
or
Paul McCracken, Drama Teacher: mccram1@dc.edu.hk
or
Carla Acepcion, Performing Arts Technician: acepcc1@dc.edu.hk

Nightfall: Reviews from Actors

Posted by Carla Acepcion

The secondary school production is an opportunity for all students to explore the world of theatre, on stage and behind the scenes. This year, like all others before it, the students worked tirelessly to create a spectacle of a show for the audience to enjoy. Below are a few words from Nicole Woo and Ethan Godinho from Year 12 who played one of the Policemen and Poe in ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’, respectively:

“Having no recollection of anything about Edgar Allen Poe heading into this production, I really didn’t know what to expect. This experience was not only a chance for, I can safely say, everyone, to explore characters that are on the opposite side of the spectrum of roles we usually take on, but to come together as the secondary sector cohort. Interacting with students with the years below was refreshing, considering our DP Theatre class has 5 students only. The story of Tell-Tale Heart was quite different to the other 3 acts, because it was funnier, and I was able to utilise my experience in comedic roles into this one, as Policeman 1. Working with Sofia, Ethan and Anna especially was a highlight throughout this journey, developing stronger relationships on stage and coming closer through our inside jokes (Ethan’s chicken rant was our favourite, of course). I would strongly encourage everyone to participate in the production, no matter in acting roles or working backstage – immersing in an atmosphere like this is something you’ll never forget for the rest of your life.” – Nicole Woo, Year 12, Policeman #1 in ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’

“Nightfall has been an absolute blast with everyone giving it their all. I did not think that the showwould turn out to be as good as it did because of the fact that most of us weren’t familiar with Edgar Allen Poe and his work. It took us a bit of time to understand the plays ourselves but once we did, we found it much easier to get into character and add a lot more emotions. The entire process allowed us to mix with people from many different year groups and so we bonded really well. I could not have asked for a better group of amazing directors, actors, backstage crew and costume and makeup crew.” – Ethan Godinho, Year 12, Poe in ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’

We would love to hear from you! If you would like to submit a review or other content please email:

Danielle Veilleux, Head of Drama: veilld1@dc.edu.hk
or
Paul McCracken, Drama Teacher: mccram1@dc.edu.hk
or
Carla Acepcion, Performing Arts Technician: acepcc1@dc.edu.hk

Nightfall: Photos from the Performance

Posted by Carla Acepcion

Lara Bateman (Y10) as Sante in ‘The Pit and the Pendulum’

(Left to right) Amirah Khan (Y10) Hannah Ward (Y10) and Katie Edwards (Y10) as Judges 1, 2 and 3 in
‘The Pit and the Pendulum’

Hanna Swedenklef (Y12) as Roderick Usher surrounded by ‘The Air’; Lila Van Ingen, Shanaya Kumar (Y11), Kayden Lau (Y8), Katie Goldschmidt (Y8) and Clare Lo (Y7) in
‘The Fall of the House of Usher’

Siosi Tameifuna (Y12) as Edgar surrounded by ‘The Air’; Lila Van Ingen, Shanaya Kumar (Y11), Kayden Lau (Y8), Katie Goldschmidt (Y8) and Clare Lo (Y7) in
‘The Fall of the House of Usher’

(Left to right) Siosi Tameifuna (Y12) and Hanna Swedenklef (Y12) in
‘The Fall of the House of Usher’

(Left to right) Divya Nebel (Y11) as Edgar, Abbey Owen (Y12) as Madeline Usher and James Collins (10V) as Poe in ‘The Raven’

Ida Haisler Steenberg (Y9) as Leonore/Ghost Girl in ‘The Raven’

Nightfall: Photos from Rehearsals

Posted by Carla Acepcion

Jueun Kang (Y11), Lara Bateman (Y10), Hannah Ward (Y10), Katie Edwards (Y10) and Amirah Khan (Y10) rehearse ‘The Pit and the Pendulum’

Ethan Godhino (Y12) and Anna Gould (Y12) rehearse ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’

Ethan Godhino (Y12) as Poe and Anna Gould (Y12) as the Old Man blocking the Old Man’s death in
‘The Tell-Tale Heart’

Jueun Kang (Y11) and Lara Bateman (Y10) play parallel characters Poe and Sante in
‘The Pit and the Pendulum’

James Rajic – Knight (Y10) plays the Soldier that frees Poe/Sante, Jueun Kang (Y11) and Lara Bateman (Y10), from the pit in ‘The Pit and the Pendulum’

The full cast, blocking the finale

Facial expressions are crucial in the portrayal of characters from ‘Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe’

Can you spot Anna Gould (Y12) playing the Old Man?

The actors used a range of different physical theatre techniques in the play.

We would love to hear from you! If you would like to submit a review or other content please email:

Danielle Veilleux, Head of Drama: veilld1@dc.edu.hk
or
Paul McCracken, Drama Teacher: mccram1@dc.edu.hk
or
Carla Acepcion, Performing Arts Technician: acepcc1@dc.edu.hk

‘Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe’ 2017: Programme & Cast List

Posted by Carla Acepcion

Congratulations and huge thank you to all who were involved in this year’s secondary production!

Cast

Production Crew