This year saw the introduction of a production course in Year 10 Drama. This is a full semester of work, which tasks students with the undertaking of adapting a picture book into a fully realised performance. Students assume one of the roles within a production team, which encompass set, costume, sound, and lighting design.

Each act within the role of director, working collaboratively to analyse the text and bring it to life on the stage. In performance, students undertake the role of actor, musician, lighting operator and stage manager.

The text for this task was the picture book, The Gift, by local author Michael Speechley. The picture book explores the tale of a young girl who befriends her lonely neighbour. The students created a stunning performance, which captured the essence of the deep isolation felt by the characters and their joyous coming together by the end of the text.

The music for the entire performance was co-written by Indi and Frida and beautifully reinforced the deeply moving mood and atmosphere of the story. We were lucky enough to have the author attend a performance and Michael was overjoyed to see his creation come to life on the stage.

Mr Jason Bancroft :: Drama Co-ordinator