Click the link to view the full version: WASCZ | The 2025 Annual Production “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”
“As the director, I think that was one of the best things for me to see the resilience these students have. You can see how excited the students are to be on the stage,” shared Ms Vornicu, the Director of this drama and the Head of Drama and Speech. Behind this emotionally powerful performance was the tireless dedication of both students and staff.
Involving students from Year 1 to Year 12, this cross-age production posed a rich and multifaceted challenge. Students had to memorise lengthy scripts in English, commit to weekly rehearsals, and fine-tune their performance techniques. During rehearsals, older and younger students had to build communication and cooperation, sometimes even rehearsing scenes alone without a stage partner. “My role is quite hard for me because it needs to fall down and a lot of new things for me,” said Grade 7 student R. Sun, who played the Scarecrow. “I think the most important thing is to work out with your friends, and this made the show better.” Their personal growth and the challenges they overcame were truly remarkable and something we can all empathise with.
The show was a true interdisciplinary collaboration, involving the Music, Drama, Dance, Art and EDT (Engineering, Design & Technology) departments. During transitions, lower school students performed charming dance scenes under the guidance of our dance teacher. The performance featured original live music by staff in the Music Department, while scenic paintings, props and set designs were lovingly crafted by students and staff in the Art and EDT departments. This creative synergy delivered a sensory and emotional feast for the entire school community, bringing us together as part of a larger, collaborative effort.
As Dorothy took her final steps down the “Yellow Brick Road” and bid farewell to her companions, the children on stage had completed their own rite of passage. The repeated line rehearsals, the emotional depth expressed in performance. These moments have become a treasured part of their personal growth. And the story, one centred on identity, courage, and friendship, continues to echo in the hearts of all who watched.
The magic of theatre, however, extends far beyond the spotlight. Mr Li, one of the Art teachers responsible for set painting, reflected on the shared value of drama and visual art. “Though expressed differently, both disciplines help students explore their identity and emotions. Drama allows students to grow through the characters they play, while visual arts convey the inner world through lines and colours. Together, they create powerful educational experiences.”
He also observed a growing number of art students participating in drama courses. “This kind of interdisciplinary approach gives students broader channels for self-expression and greater opportunities for self-awareness and self-acceptance, especially important during adolescence. These are equally vital outcomes of education, alongside traditional academics.”
As a signature programme at WASCZ, the value of drama education goes well beyond the confines of the stage. For many students involved, whether they aspire to become lawyers, doctors, or pursue other professions, the skills gained through drama will remain a lifelong asset. As Director, Ms Vornicu puts it: “Drama equips students with invaluable transferable skills. They become more confident, better communicators, and skilled team players. These abilities will benefit them in any future career path.”
By encouraging students to step onto the stage, we open a path for them to explore the world with their bodies, feel with their hearts, express with their voices, and create with their minds. Through drama, they learn to understand life in their own way, igniting a passion for living and dreaming. It empowers them with the courage to face challenges, the strength to discover themselves, and the confidence to shine, wherever their future may lead.
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