Schools on Stage

Performing Arts in Education

Sound and Light company Lifelike Atmospheres asked teachers and students why putting on a show is such a valuable experience for schools.

The only thing that is constant in our modern world is change. Developing the capacity in students to engage with and thrive in this environment is the challenge for modern education. One of the key skills required for success is creativity.

Afternoon Tea with Miss Patrice

Hello everyone and welcome to my new adventure!  A column in this wonderful little publication. I am beyond excited.

My name is Esmerelda Patrice and I am a teacher in WA. Last year, I was asked to teach a drama class and so I took on the idea of doing the school production as well.

I talked about my triumph in a podcast. Now teachers from all over the world have been writing to me and asking for my advice. After only one production! Clearly, I didn’t realise I was that clever.

So please, ask me questions regarding anything theatrical!

Shake & Stir Virtual

With their live theatrical productions disrupted by COVID-19, shake & stir theatre company is now reaching out to schools with Shake & Stir Virtual

SW: Tell us about Shake & Stir Virtual. What exactly is it?

SPARK 2020

The 2020 Stage Whispers' School Performing Arts Resource Kit - SPARK - is out now, incorporating new digital learning opportunities.

Click HERE for a state by state guide to shows for schools later in the year.

Plus all the resources you need to stage a show (eventually) including costumes, props and sets, musical and play selection, sound, light and training.

SLAP. BANG. KISS.

Can teenagers change the world? Playwright Dan Giovannoni thinks so and his play, commissioned by the Melbourne Theatre Company, shows how it can be done.

Stage Whispers: What is title about?

The Dream

The Heights School Players (SA). Golden Grove Arts Centre, Golden Grove. August 16-18, 2019

“The course of true love never did run smooth.” One of William Shakespeare’s most famous quotes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Little did he ever think, even in his wildest dreams (no pun intended), that one of his iconic comedies would be relocated to India and given the Bollywood Treatment!

Les Misérables

Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg. Lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer. Original French text byAlain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel. Additional Material by James Fenton. Adaptation by Trevor Nunn and John Caird. Scotch College, Torrens Park, SA. July 26 – August 3, 2019

Oliver!

By Lionel Bart. Directed by Beth Parkinson. Mazenod College, Lesmurdie, WA. July 20-27, 2019

Mazenod College’s production of Oliver! might almost be described as "Oliver! - The Arena Spectacular". Performed in the round, in a converted gymnasium, with a revolving stage, huge set pieces and a cast of 55, this was a large scale theatrical experience. Design and decorations extend to the foyer and interval space, making this an immersive and exciting experience.

High School Student’s Hit Song

Sophia Chesworth released a song that went to the top of the country music charts whilst still at High School. She attends the Australian Performing Arts Grammar School (APGS), which allows students to study and chase a creative career.  

Sophia moved to the inner-city Performing Arts school in Sydney for her senior studies because she wanted to be supported to pursue her passions.

“I have to say my favorite thing about APGS is how supportive it is,” say Sophia.

Peter Pan

By Sir James Barrie, lyrics by Carolyn Lee, music by Morris (Moose) Charlap, additional lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolf Green, additional music by Jule Styne. St Hilda’s Anglican School For Girls. Directed by Sharon Kiely. Musical Direction by Tim Chapman. Joy Shepherd Performing Arts Centre, Mosman Park, WA. June 30 - July 2, 2019