Term 1 Senior Arts Review 2025-6

Senior Arts Review

TERM 1, 2025/26

THE ARTS AT TANGLIN "It starts with a spark of curiosity that is fuelled by passion. A desire to be creative while persevering through the challenges. Discovering your artistic identity through personal expression. Developing an appreciation and mutual respect for the work of others. Encouraging inclusion and diversity so everyone can participate, succeed and achieve their personal best."

At Tanglin, we have a thriving Arts community with over 800 students participating in approximately 50 CCAs weekly, culminating in over 50 events yearly. We also achieve outstanding results in the classroom and have been awarded ‘best in the world’ for A Level 8 times in the last 5 years for individual Arts Subjects. Our talented teaching staff and Arts technicians work tirelessly with our students daily to offer memorable opportunities to be creative, collaborate and express themselves in the Arts, inside and outside the classroom.

This is the first edition of the Senior Arts Review this academic year. It has been another busy term, with many fantastic events showcased across the Arts in the Senior School, catering to a wide range of interests and abilities. I hope you enjoy reading about all our endeavours this year, and we will hopefully see you next term at some of our events.

Richie Baxter Head of the Arts Faculty

DRAMA The Senior Drama Department has been a vibrant hub of creativity and collaboration this term, with students across all year groups engaging in rich, theatrical explorations and imaginative performance work.

Year 8 students started the term with Greek Theatre, exploring its conventions and theatrical style through the work of Splendid Productions, then moving on to Puppetry in performance and the ‘suspension of disbelief’.

In Year 9, the focus was on the principles of Naturalism, with students studying how truthful characterisation and believable relationships are created on stage.

This term has also seen exceptionally high-quality, practical performances from our GCSE, AS, A2 and IB examination groups. These students explored meaningful themes, engaging with their material in a way that demonstrated both depth of understanding and maturity. More recently, we were privileged to watch Year 12 present a thought-provoking performance of Nora, showcasing outstanding talent so early on in their IB Theatre journey.

In addition to a busy academic curriculum, the department supported a ‘student-led’ production of The Drowning Girls, followed by Year 9 students presenting their own engaging interpretation of the 100. The fabulous Dance Showcase returned with a theme of ‘Connections’, demonstrating their passion and talent for dance, which was a joy to watch.

Throughout the term, rehearsals have been underway for this year’s upper school production, Sister Act. Students have worked incredibly hard, and their dedication, energy, and teamwork have been exceptional. We also welcomed West End stars James Bennett and Noel Sullivan, who joined us for 3 days to work with the cast. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn from and work with 2 industry legends.

Dawn Smith Head of Drama

"Drama has been great fun and very collaborative this term. I love being creative and pushing myself out of my comfort zone, which I feel I can do in this subject.

The studio is my safe space where I can be myself. I’m really looking forward to next term and ‘15 Reasons Not to Put on a Play’ rehearsals. I do every Drama CCA available to me, making the most of every opportunity to perform!”

Zaara K. (Year 8 Student)

DRAMA TRIP TO LONDON What a joy and privilege it has been to create and lead on Tanglin’s Drama's first trip to London, in conjunction with LITA. It was the perfect blend of opportunity, fun, and challenge, where our Senior Drama students were able to learn from and rub shoulders with some of the industry's finest, including Leanne Pinder from Punch, Hayley Sanderson from Strictly, and Nicole Bright from Hadestown. In addition, we met some of our Tanglin Drama alumni based in London. It was a beautiful opportunity for our past students to share the joys of an education in the Arts with our current cohort.

Topping it off was a tour at the very impressive Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, where we also got to see one of our own, Ines Defalgue, in action. A huge thank you to James Bennet and Noel Sullivan for making this happen.

Anita Sprague Trip leader and Drama Teacher

FILM Term 1 has been exceptionally busy for the teachers and students of Film and Media Technology. Throughout this term, we have conducted multiple film production exercises for Year 12 and Year 13 students, culminating in the annual Hitchcock Day, where students worked on projects to recreate some of the great director’s famous cinematography and lighting techniques.

Actor/Director Simon Purse returned in September for his annual workshops, guiding students through the practice and protocols of directing short films, with a focus on creating tension in the thriller genre.

In November, Mediacorp also invited our Year 12 Film and Media students to a tour of their creative departments (editing/make-up/costume, etc.) and production facilities (sound stages/sets/lighting, etc.). This was an interesting and enlightening experience for our students, who also had the opportunity to speak with section heads about the different roles/pressures/protocols within the industry.

In collaboration with the Alumni Department, Film and Media students also met with Tanglin alumni Stella Talpo and Javid Rezai to discuss their film and media careers and their work as producers of the upcoming short, Belladona.

Recent weeks have once again seen a flourishing of filmmaking in and around campus, and in various locations around Singapore. Working in a multitude of genres and styles, our students produced some very high-quality work using the department’s professional camera and recording equipment, and some high-end visual and special effects software such as Adobe After Effects.

Students have created films across diverse genres, from horror and science fiction to romantic comedy and crime. It was impressive to see students meticulously working out shooting schedules, compiling kit lists, briefing technical crews, and rehearsing with actors. The logistical challenges of filmmaking are significant and probably unique to Film and Media in a school context, and it is amazing to see the students cope with these real-world challenges.

Ben Astley Head of Film and Media

“Mr Simon Purse really gave me a new perspective on watching film, making me think about how different technical elements work together to produce meaning. A major component of thrillers is lighting, and we looked at the film ‘Drive’, analysing the subtle details of how the key factors of light make us subconsciously understand the characters and mood. This made me really appreciate small yet important details and how even small shifts in light can completely alter the atmosphere and guide how we interpret a scene.

I enjoyed his talk because it offered insights beyond the exam board, giving me a more genuine view of the filmmaking industry. I’m excited to apply these ideas to my short thriller, as it will add a greater depth to my project.

Milla J. (Year 12 Student)

“On 31 October, Media Studies and Film students spent a memorable Halloween learning from one of the most innovative filmmakers of all time, Alfred Hitchcock. We began the day by exploring the term ‘pure cinema’, coined by Hitchcock to express the importance of movingimage elements in cinema to convey meaning. The following four lessons were devoted to group experimentation with four methods used by Hitchcock.

We collaborated to achieve the ideal crane shot when practising ‘show don’t tell’ and while experimenting with lighting we discovered unique ways in which light and shadows affect the mood of a film.

It was highly exciting to use an industry-standard camera and dolly tracks to recreate a walk-and-talk sequence, and groups combined to try to create a perfect dolly zoom, adapting our method with each problem we encountered. The highlight of the day was creating our own montage sequence like the shower scene in Psycho.

The day ended peacefully with experiments in editing.

Hitchcock Day was an invaluable experience that honed so many essential skills that will shine through in our coursework films.”

Grayson S. (Year 12 Student)

“Earlier this month, the Year 12 A Level and IB students got an amazing opportunity to visit Mediacorp to expand our knowledge about the film industry. We visited the costume and makeup departments and learned how they create prosthetic makeup. We also learnt how they create special effects, such as creature looks and injuries, using prosthetic makeup. We then went to the sound department and learned how various sound effects (such as Foley) and dialogue are assembled.

Lastly, we proceeded to the post-production floor, where we discovered the various jobs that brought the film together.

We learned the order of post-production: editing, visual effects, and colour grading.”

Grace W. (Year 12 Student)

ART & DESIGN During Term 1, the Tanglin Senior Art Department delivered a vibrant and enriching programme that offered students across the school a wide range of artistic, cultural and experiential learning opportunities. These activities strengthened technical skills, deepened contextual understanding and inspired creative ambition, reflecting the department’s commitment to excellence in art education.

The term began with a Year 8 visit to the National Gallery Singapore. In preparation for the Interpretations event, students explored Southeast Asian art firsthand, developing analytical and visual literacy skills. Encountering original artworks encouraged them to consider historical, cultural and social contexts, laying strong foundations for critical engagement with art.

A key community-focused event was Drawing by the Bus Bay, a whole-school drawing initiative inspired by the SG60 theme. This collaborative activity brought students and staff together in a shared creative experience, celebrating drawing as an accessible and unifying practice.

Year 12 students benefited from several outstanding enrichment opportunities. A highlight was the Yogyakarta residential trip, an immersive cultural and artistic experience designed to support portfolio development. Exposure to local artistic practices, environments and traditions provided a powerful stimulus for ideas and helped shape the direction of students’ coursework.

Back at Tanglin, Year 12 students participated in evening life drawing sessions led by practising artist Priscilia Kheng. These sessions allowed students to refine observation skills, build confidence with form and proportion, and strengthen technical discipline.

Additional GCSE and A Level coursework days provided valuable sustained studio time for developing and completing major projects.

The department also welcomed several visiting artists. Internationally renowned 3D pop artist Charles Fazzino led workshops with Year 9 students, while Year 12 students worked with visiting artists Natasha Kissell and Chen Shitong in painting and collagraph printmaking sessions. Students from Years 10 to 13 also took part in the Articulation Singapore Public Speaking Competition, with five entries progressing to the national round.

Elizabeth Anstiss Head of Senior Art and Design

“The Art Residential trip to Yogyakarta was a really memorable experience. I specifically enjoyed working in the sketchbooks we were given and drawing what was around me using the materials available. I learned how to work in a time-specific way and be more observant of my surroundings, especially while working in scenic locations.”

Annabelle R. (Year 12 Student)

MUSIC This term has been another rewarding one for our Senior School musicians, who have participated in a wide range of performances, workshops, and creative projects.

Co-Curricular Highlights The term opened with the Scholars’ Concert at Chijmes, providing a wonderful platform for students to share their talents in an elegant setting. A variety of formal and informal concerts followed, along with another edition of Music in the Mornings featuring many instrumental and vocal soloists.

Our singers contributed significantly to the Remembrance Service at Kranji, and the annual House Singing Competition brought energy and fun with its Elton John theme. Shortly after half-term, our Ensembles Concert at SOTA Concert Hall provided an excellent opportunity for our students to showcase their talents in a professional setting. Another memorable moment was the visit from acclaimed saxophonist YolanDa Brown, whose workshops inspired both students and staff.

As the festive season approached, students performed carols at venues across Singapore, and bands performing at House Day added to the celebrations. The term concluded with two popular annual events: the Festival of Music at St. George’s and Christmas Jazz Night, both showcasing the depth of talent in our school. Looking ahead, our senior bands are already preparing for next term’s Battle of the Bands.

Music in the Classroom Classroom learning has been equally engaging. Middle School students have explored practical music-making through band projects and composition tasks, while Upper School and Sixth Form students have been focused on performing and composing coursework. A group of students was also fortunate to attend a screening of Top Gun accompanied by a live orchestra—a unique opportunity to enjoy the blend of film and symphonic music.

Helen Owain Head of Senior Music

“I have always been passionate about music, and that grew considerably after I joined Tanglin. A highlight was the 2024 Spain Music Tour, where I had the opportunity to perform in various locations such as churches and cathedrals, allowing me to connect profoundly with the country’s rich musical heritage. I am currently taking A Level music, but beyond academics, I serve as a Music Prefect, tutoring the Year 10s and Year 11s during lunchtime music clinics.

I actively participate in a wide range of ensembles as a trumpeter, such as orchestra, concert band, brass quintet, and jazz band, which included a fantastic workshop led by renowned saxophonist Yolanda Brown.

I have recently expanded my performing experience by playing in the pit band for the school’s musical production, Sister Act.” Yris S. (Year 12 Student)

COLLABORATION IN THE ARTS In Year 7, students took part in an exciting collaboration in their Music and Drama lessons, focusing on the horror genre. The students explored how tension, suspense, and atmosphere can be created on stage, not only through physicality and staging but also through sound. Then they composed their own original horror music, sound effects and Foley sounds to enhance what is seen on screen.

COLLABORATIONS COMING UP IN TERM 2 Music & Drama - Sister Act the Musical Art & Music - Year 7 Brighthill Temple Project Art, English & Music - Year 8 Interpretations at the National Gallery Art & Film - Filming the artistic journey of an A Level Art student Music & Film - IB students collaborating for their HL Collaborative project