Last weekend, 10 Y10&11 drama students participated in the High School Festival led by ISTA (International Schools Theatre Association) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Students toured the Cu Chi tunnels and were introduced to both perspectives of the Vietnam war, with the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels and see the tanks, tools, booby traps and secret passages of the 250km tunnels. Our students worked with other international students and ISTA artists to develop theatrical material inspired by their theme, ‘Going Underground’. Students participated in workshops on dance, Vietnamese drumming, unicorn dancing, and devising. By the end of the third day, they had created a full spectacle of a show, performed to a theatre full of staff and parents.
“Every moment was a special highlight for me at this festival. But a few memorable ones were making and building new lifelong friendships. […] I was able to […] develop my acting skills, […] confidence, collaboration, and patience. […] Another highlight for me was the Cu Chi tunnels. I learned so much about the tunnels, Vietnam history, culture and took so many valuable information in notes that I will never forget. […] Acting physical theatre was definitely my highlight. […] The Vietnam drumming was my favourite because it was fascinating to watch and hear. ISTA is a new, fascinating, wonderful experience to make memorable friends, learn about culture and history in a very fun way and develop your drama skills in every way. […] You can bring out your potential and learn more about what Drama means to you.” – Doh Young, Y10
We will endeavor to run this overseas trip annually for Y10&11 Drama students, and although the destination will be different each time, the ISTA experience is always invaluable. If you would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact Danielle Veilleux, Head of Drama at veilld1@dc.edu.hk.
