On Monday evening the Grade 8, 9 and 10 Theatre students came together to present a showcase of their work, highlighting the diverse skills and concepts they have explored throughout the MYP Theatre program so far this year.
From Commedia Dell’arte to naturalistic monologues and intricate set design, the evening was a celebration of the students’ growth as performers, creators and designers.
Grade 8 Theatre: Commedia Dell’arte – A Timeless Tradition of Laughter
The Grade 8 actors transported the audience back to the playful world of Commedia Dell’arte, a medieval form of theatre known for its masked characters and physical comedy. Through an inquiry-based exploration of the genre, students investigated its origins, honed their skills in mask work and engaged in improvisation and exaggerated character work.
This culminated in an interactive performance that showcased their ability to bring to life a range of colourful characters—from sly servants and lovelorn youths to domineering masters. With audience interaction encouraged throughout, the performance reminded us that humour, in its most timeless form, transcends centuries. What was funny 400 years ago is just as hilarious today!
Grade 9 Theatre: Monologues – A Deep Dive into Naturalistic Acting
The Grade 9 students offered a powerful display of naturalistic acting through their monologue performances, each exploring complex characters from diverse plays. Drawing on the techniques of renowned Russian actor and director Konstantin Stanislavski, the students delved into the psychology of their characters, breaking down the text to uncover objectives, subtext and emotional beats. Their performances were a testament to their ability to bring authenticity and depth to their roles.
Grade 10 Theatre: Set Design – Transforming Space into Story
The Grade 10s demonstrated their talents as designers, taking the audience on a visual journey through the world of set design. This term they have been focused on understanding the role of set designers in conveying themes and shaping the audience’s experience. Each student presented a meticulously crafted model set, built to scale and thoughtfully designed to reflect the tone, genre and themes of the plays they studied. From dramatic to whimsical, each set was a visual exploration of how physical space can enhance storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the essential role of design in theatre.
A Showcase of Collaboration, Inquiry, and Growth
The Fall MYP Theatre Showcase exemplified the core principles of the MYP Arts curriculum: investigating, developing, creating and evaluating. Throughout the term, students have been engaged in a cycle of inquiry, action and reflection, deepening their understanding of the craft and their ability to express themselves through performance and design.
A big thank you to all students, faculty, donors and faculty who supported the showcase and we look forward to seeing more of these talented students as they continue to grow and thrive in the world of theatre!
We hope you enjoyed the showcase and look forward to future performances, including this year’s musical Urinetown.
