I have always loved drama. I am the incarnation of the cliche, 'She could dance before she could walk, and sing before she could talk'. Any chance to get on stage and perform, I take it. No questions (or at least very few) asked. But it is not just the acting/singing/dancing aspect of theatre that I enjoy.

GREEN THEATRE was set up when I was still a student at KES, in Year 12. My mother (Mrs. Dunne) is head of the Special Needs Department, and wanted to find a way to integrate her students into the main school more. Drama has always been a vital component to confidence-building for any person so, with my prior experience taking Drama classes at the Green Unit, I volunteered to help...or rather, she volunteered for me!

Thus, the school's first inclusive drama club was formed. We started with just a handful of students, about one-third Green Unit students and the rest mainstream pupils. We started in March 2007, simply taking parts in various workshops...next thing we know, the next year we have 35 students! All of them asking, 'Can we put on a show?!'

At first I thought they must be kidding. I'd never directed anything beyond classroom drama! But then I said, 'Why not?!' And so, in April 2008, Green Theatre performed its first ever stage production as a troupe: Green Theatre Uncovered: The Lion King.

It has been an absolute joy to lead such a talented group of students, as well as to work with some fine individuals who graciously gave up their time and resources to help me. To watch the students grow in confidence is such a reward. In fact, because of Green Theatre, I was given the opportunity to delve into the teaching as well as directing aspect of Drama, something I had only just touched upon previously. I was inspired by these young actors, and my own confidence grew, which led me to take a job as the Drama Department Teaching Assistant for a year. I was able to dedicate more time to Green Theatre than when I was a student lending her time after school, and I don't regret a minute of it. Not even the bad ones!

It is a dream come true to see how much Green Theatre has grown over the last two years. To have doubled in popularity, size and support is an incredible achievement. I am grateful to have made so many friends of the students and staff, and to put on such a great show! What a feeling!

Sadly, I won't be directing Green Theatre next year. However, I will most definitely be coming to visit to see it live on. Words cannot even begin to describe how proud I am. Thank you all.

Jenny Dunne
Your DIRECTOR!

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