Thinking – and living – outside the box
“I am Amelia Earhart and I want to get out of here!” – the striking opening line of the recent Carramar senior production of ‘Chamber Music’.
The choice of this one-act play by Arthur Kopit highlights the broad learning opportunities offered through studying the Arts in senior school. Head of Learning Area – The Arts (HOLA) Ruth Doyle chose this play specifically for this group of students.
“This year predominately female students auditioned for the senior production so I chose a play that would give each student an opportunity to shine on stage. The play is set in the nineteenth century when psychiatry saw female independence as madness. Studying this play gave us the chance to explore these issues and discuss how the famous women changed the world around them and reshaped history during a time when women did not have the opportunities that we have today”.
Year 12, Jacinta Randell who played the role of explorer and film-maker, Osa Johnson, found the process challenging but rewarding. “The experience was an amazing one, it was a long process, but I had a great time, and the end result was well worth it hearing all the people laughing and enjoying the play just as much as we enjoyed performing it”.
Ruth has witnessed many students like Jacinta flourish through their study of the Arts. “I’ve seen students grow in confidence and self-expression studying an Arts subject and had the joy of watching students master new skills and develop their talents and creativity. ‘Chamber Music’ was a great example of this with several performers who were extremely shy in Year 7 taking central roles and captivating the audience with their ability to bring a character to life. Students often use the subject to address issues that matter to them, and this outlet gives them the opportunity to build on their emotional intelligence and cultivate their communication skills”.
Isabella Mattes, who ironically played Queen Isabella of Spain, has seen these benefits for herself first-hand “I loved the idea of performing and getting out of my comfort zone. Drama has given me more courage personally.”
Choosing Drama, Art or Music in senior school can contribute to a well-rounded and holistic learning experience, providing students with skills and perspectives that extend far beyond the classroom or the realm of the stage.
“The Arts encourages students to think outside the box and use their imagination to create unique works of Art, Music, and Drama, fostering creativity and helping to expand the students’ voice and artistic expression. Analysis and the deeper study of art works, music and scripts develops not only a deeper understanding of underlying messages but also helps students cultivate their critical thinking skills”, said HOLA, Ruth.
Isabella Kerrigan, who played Constanze Mozart in ‘Chamber Music’ finds her study of drama a great break from the intensity of her other studies in Year 12.
“In drama you get to build on your confidence by working with others and being surrounded by people who have the same passion as you and won’t judge you. I also feel drama gives me a break because I enjoy it, and feel it is stress-free compared to other subjects I am currently studying”.
With thanks to alumnus, Callum Smith, for the beautiful photographic images.
C Smith Photography