Drama
Drama
Our performing arts courses give students a space to build confidence, work collaboratively, express themselves and be creative. Students are invited to be part of many theatre experiences including Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, Rōpū Whakaari, Aroha Noa Talent Quest and Cultural Slam.
Students can work towards public performances as part of Rōpū Whakaari, our school drama group. During this process they learn about leadership, production skills (lighting, costumes, makeup, set design, sound), characterisation and understanding scripts. Performances are always well recognised with whanau and teachers reflecting on the significant value of seeing student effort outside of the classroom.
Here at Lytton we also provide our students the opportunity to view experienced theatre practitioners in performance. In 2016 alone we hosted the following well recognised groups: The Lord Lackbeards Shakespeare Company, Toi Whakaari (NZ Drama School), Araitepō Performance Collective and Excel School of Performing Arts.
Student Voice
“Drama is the class in my weekly timetable that I look forward to the most. It’s an incredibly beautiful and inspiring thing to be surrounded by people who share the same passion and energy as you, and that’s exactly what I walk into every class. I feel celebrated for my strengths and supported in my weaknesses, which has encouraged me to try new things and pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Drama promotes self expression, collaboration and creativity and is a great way to build confidence. In class we learn about drama techniques and conventions, devising, characterisation, understanding script and production roles, such as; Lighting, Sound, Props, Scenery, Makeup and Costume. The class is a combination of Level 1, 2 & 3 students, all of whom are at different stages in confidence and experience. This makes for a rather fun and unique dynamic. Less confident students are able to seek help or advice from the more senior and/or experienced students whilst at the same time allowing the senior students an opportunity to share their skills and knowledge with those who will benefit.
It is great to see performing arts becoming a part of the school culture again, and although I am disappointed that NCEA drama only became an option for me In my final year, I am very grateful nonetheless.”
– Matthew Hatten, 2019 Media Prefect
