Theatre

At Branksome Hall Asia, Theatre is a safe space for students to explore who they are, who they can become and how they can confidently communicate with their communities and the world around them.

Our Theatre curriculum is designed to empower students at all levels to explore a range of theatrical styles, techniques, and devices, enabling them to effectively convey ideas to an audience. Whether through scripted performances, self written dialogue or movement, students are encouraged to explore their creativity and communication skills. Our diverse units encompass topics such as world puppetry, the theatrical styles of Japan, physical theatre, theatrical design, scripted work and devising. We offer students opportunities for both collaborative and individual exploration that aims to uncover their unique talents and passions as well as develop confidence and leadership.

Theatre classes are integrated into the curriculum for all students in Grades 6-8 as part of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP). In Grades 9 and 10, students have the opportunity to delve deeper by selecting Theatre as one of their elective Arts options. This pathway allows for a more comprehensive exploration of theatrical concepts and techniques with an increased number of lessons per week. For passionate students seeking a more advanced study of Theatre in Grades 11 and 12, they can opt to take the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Theatre. This academically rigorous yet practical course provides students with an in-depth understanding of theatrical theory, practice, and analysis, developing acting, directing and design skills through practical and theoretical work.

Complementing classroom instruction, our extensive extracurricular offerings (CASE), provide platforms for students to showcase their talents and further develop their skills. From full-scale musical productions to plays, playwriting festivals, and intensive 24-hour theatre workshops, students engage in immersive experiences that foster not only acting proficiency but also scriptwriting and design skills. Additionally, students have the chance to take on leadership roles as student directors, contributing further to the vibrant theatre community at Branksome Hall Asia.

All our productions are supported by a dedicated student-led stage crew proficient in operating industry-standard lighting and sound equipment, as well as managing the logistical aspects of stage production through roles in stage management, costume design and set and prop building. This hands-on involvement ensures a holistic understanding of theatre production and cultivates valuable teamwork and leadership skills among our students.

Our Theatre department is incredibly well equipped and comprises:

• A black box studio theatre

• A 342 seat auditorium

• An industry standard control room

• A set building workshop

• A fully equipped costume room

• A performance classroom with sprung dance floor.