
More than just a performance, the XCL World Academy’s latest drama production demonstrates the benefits of a good school drama programme and the skills to be gained by all involved…
The students of XCL World Academy (XWA) really know how to put on a show.
Recently, the HoneyKids team had the chance to watch the school’s presentation of the record-breaking Broadway comedy – Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic & Magic. The play is a comedic retelling of the Harry Potter series from the perspective of students from the “Puffs” house, who happen to be a bunch of magical misfits, unlike the famous wizarding trio.
The play was definitely a refreshing experience for both the audience and cast members as it’s been a while since the students could put on a production for live audience. “After the last two years of uncertainty and restriction, there is no better feeling than being able to bring this particular performance to life in front of a live audience. The annual Secondary Years Production is an experiential learning journey for students passionate about and excel in the performing arts. Those involved truly go above and beyond in terms of their commitment, sacrifice, perseverance and dedication,” said Mandi Manson, XWA’s Head of the Art, DP Theatre & MYP Drama, and Director of the production.
Our verdict? A magical experience from start to finish
First up – we couldn’t believe that this production was a student-only cast, with star performers from Grade 7 right through to Grade 12. And on top of that, the play had over 60 characters but only 20 student actors. That’s a lot of lines to learn! But learn them they did – the show was so professional from start to finish; everything from set design to costumes was carefully considered. A special shout out should go to the young actor playing the main character, Wayne Hopkins (played by Brody Roessel, Grade 8) who was super convincing in his part as the awkward wizard. It’s also really easy to grow to love the reluctant Puff, Megan Jones (played by Marilena Kolokotsa, Grade 11) – kudos to the actress who did her part justice!
“Committed, audacious and resilient”
These were the words used by XWA’s Secondary Years Principal, Mark Petterson, to describe Puffs. XWA is not short of talented students when it comes to the arts, but this year’s production deserves recognition also for the fact that the preparation and rehearsals all took place with strict safety management measures in place. Petterson said, “I have lost count of the number of hours that the cast and crew have spent on auditions, set design, costume preparations and the constant rehearsals – all of which needed to be achieved while adhering to the strictest of safe management measures. I am sure you will agree that this has been no mean feat.”
A performance where lessons are learned
While the show has a 1.45-hour run time, the amount of effort that was done behind the scenes was definitely much longer than that. When asked to share their experience in working on Puffs, the student actors unanimously agreed that they learned many valuable lessons. The production taught them drama techniques like how to deliver humour effectively; it also helped them understand the importance of teamwork and discipline.
“During Puffs, I learnt the importance of focus, determination and commitment. Whether it was coming to every rehearsal ready to give it my all or ensuring that the production was my number one priority,” said Veronica Burns, who is one of the cast members. “Puffs taught me the importance of balancing my life and how dedication makes the final product outstanding. I also learned to support my cast mates when they were stressed or unsure. We worked together as a team.”
All this demonstrate the benefits of having a good drama programme in school. As a field of study, drama helps develop a student’s public speaking skills, leading to more self-confidence to discover their full potential. XWA has a dedicated Drama Programme that’s offered to students who want to specialise from Grade 9 onwards. Students will learn about the theoretical aspects of drama, such as its history and practice and practical lessons that refine their communication and performance skills. Equipped with this knowledge, students will then be able to see how they can use drama as a catalyst for social change and reflection.
XWA also has great facilities and activities to support its Drama Programme. Students get to practise and learn in the school’s fully equipped Drama Room, and shows like Puffs will be performed in its 750-seat state-of-the-art auditorium. Students will also have lots of opportunities to showcase their skills, such as during Art Week and their Secondary Years Production.
But the best part of the production goes to… the memories and friendships made
The most beautiful thing to come from XWA’s 2022 production is the long-lasting friendships and memories made. One of the actors, Prachet Trikha, said, “without a doubt, the level of comradery that surfaced between cast and crew to deliver a challenging performance remains my favourite part. Despite the whirlwind of challenges faced, remaining united and dedicated enabled the delivery of a spectacular performance. Not only did the performance build strong relationships between those involved, but it further united our school community in engaging and enjoying the result of many people’s hard work.” And this sentiment is echoed by his parent, Mr Trikha, who agrees, “My son enjoyed the experience and definitely made memories for life!”
Well done, XWA and its student performers! If you are interested to find out more about XWA Drama Programme, book a presonalised tour or a virtual consultaiton for your family today.
This post is in partnership with XCL World Academy