Head of Drama - Edition 5 - 2019

The tempo in Drama has certainly increased over the last fortnight with Year 8 students set the task of creating basic Stage Combat Choreography based on set moves, whilst Year 9s will be working with weapons in the same fashion, layering prescribed moves and acting techniques into a choreographed sequence for assessment. Both year groups were treated to viewing footage of both Sifu Ruth Fallon, and Sifu Nino Pilla in action footage from a number of movies including Rob Schneider’s “Big Stan”. The expressions of realization on the students’ faces that they really are working with performers and instructors of International standing was priceless! I'm pleased to report that our Westminster ‘Junior Stunt Crew” is learning a great deal about self-awareness, spatial awareness, choreography, team work, precision, and the reality of fake fights on screen.

Not to be outdone, the Year 10s have continued their circus work with former Cirque du Soleil aerialist, Ella Fenwick. Ella has gradually increased the rigor in the students’ training so that we are now in the position to start applying a range of skills to creating a show for a Year 3 audience. In the meantime, both Years 11 and 12 students have been busy drawing on their Adelaide Festival of Arts and Adelaide Fringe attendances by creating a range of performance projects for assessment. The Year 12s have recently been informed of the play they will be performing for their SACE Stage 2 Production, no doubt capably assisted by Year 11s, a script entitled “ What Rhinoceros?!?” - but more on that later!

In the meantime, be sure to get along to our School Musical, “Annie”, directed by Kat Elliot, who has brought a great suite of skills, experience and wonderful directorial style to Westminster School. She is capably and enthusiastically supported by numerous willing staff members. Watch out for more exciting news from the Westminster Drama Department!

John Doherty
Head of Drama