FEATURE
The community of THEATRE The East High School Drama and Music departments have staged two impressive theatre productions so far this school year: Macbeth in December and Jesus Christ Superstar in February. From Shakespeare to Andrew Lloyd Webber, from classical drama
to a rock musical, the shows captivated audiences and brought these familiar stories to life in new and unexpected ways. As we considered how to feature these productions, rather than reporting on the unique elements of the productions themselves, a
common theme emerged from the students involved— the community that forms through the shared experience of theatre. ‘Community’ is a word that is used a lot at UWCSEA. As we dedicate ourselves to the
UWC mission, community is vital if we are to achieve peace and a sustainable future. Within our two large campuses, smaller communities at school, grade, or activity levels can help people to feel connected to one another and the
By Hector Martin Dit Neuville, Grade 9 and Macbeth cast member, East Campus Walking into the first rehearsal, I felt lost and overwhelmed by the age difference and experience that was around me. Being in Grade 9, I was one of the youngest in the High School cast. It turned out, that the experienced actors weren’t very intimidating at all. They instead led and pushed the others toward achieving what they had themselves learned in previous years. The entire company cared as much about helping each other as they did about themselves and it was amazing to watch and be a part of. As a sports player, and someone who loves rugby in particular, I could see a strange but bold connection between the two activities. In both, there was a strong sense of togetherness and group. In both cultures there was a sense of team first … By Hugues Martin Dit Neuville, Grade 12 and Macbeth cast member, East Campus Seven years. Seven different productions … Stepping off stage after the last production night of Macbeth … it was difficult to walk away from the stage and acknowledge the fact that there will not be a ‘next time.’ There is a sense of community and belonging built through theatre that is unparalleled in any other activity. When you find yourself immersed in a group filled with a wide variety of different personalities—the school’s athletes, musicians, dancers and intellectuals—all pre-existing social barriers are subconsciously torn down for the time you share each week. The moment you step into the Black Box, everyone finds themselves on a level playing field. The person sitting opposite you in French class that you never had the opportunity to speak with suddenly becomes your closest friend, and the basketball team’s captain who seemed to rule the world no longer seems as intimidating … Turning my sights on university and my future … I can be sure that all the qualities that theatre has rewarded me with will allow me to integrate myself easily into any environment I find myself in, and feel comfortable overcoming any challenges life will undoubtedly throw my way. 20 | Dunia April 2017