PERFORMING ARTS
Drama
We have a thriving drama program here at Robinvale College with such an enthusiastic group of students and a brilliant, engaging and talented drama teacher in Mr O'Toole.
We regularly put on shows and productions, get involved in stage make up, movie making, and play writing and of course acting.
Drama is such a great way to improve a students confidence, social skills and expression.
Drama Exercises
he Drama classroom provides an excellent platform for students to engage in the learning process. Drama has the potential of making the learning experience fun for all students and it is even more memorable because it is interactive and visual. The Drama classroom has a variety of benefits for student learning; it helps to develop new vocabulary, builds confidence, self-esteem, motivates the students and provides many outlets for self-expression.
The Art Of Comedy
The Fundamentals of comedy are derived from improvisation, which student touch on in Year 7 and 8. By revisiting Mime and introducing exaggerated physical, emotional and vocal gesture, the groundwork is then established to extend into Slapstick and further comedic avenues. From there students are introduced to the more subtle forms of comedy such as satire and parody.
Teacher SnapChat Parody
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Dora the Explorer – High School Parody
Once students developed an understanding of Comedy including satire and parody, our class decided to embark on creating an original filmed parody.
Our first concept idea was ‘What would Teachers SnapChat about?’
From here it was a Roller-coaster of funny ideas and great support from the staff at Robinvale College.
Students delved into the examination of Teacher mannerisms and behaviour and learnt how to make almost anything funny. Using the format of SnapChat this is what we found humorous, we hope that you do too! A big thank you to all staff, who supported this project. Students also
scripted, performed and edited their very own short film. Based on the character Dora the Explorer students continued to explore the comedy facet of parodies.
Comic Book Drama!
Students last year experimented with digital technologies to create their very own fairy-tale comic. Students began by experimenting with body language, strong facial expressions and gestures in classroom activities. Through this process students soon developed the skills to create interesting still-imagery and tableaus. Students also explored how camera angels can be used to demonstrate character perspective and maintain audience interest. Once completed student then had the opportunity to try their hand at re-telling the classic story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. This allowed students to develop their understanding of narrative and the importance of story-telling in the field of Drama.
Make Up Artistry
As part of our year 9/10 Drama course students are exposed to the different stagecraft’s’ of technical theatre. Seeing as it is getting closer to Halloween, I thought it was appropriate to experiment with burns, cuts and burses. Students first explored the roles and responsibilities of a Make-up artist through watching an interview with Make-up artists involved in the Broadway stage musical Wicked. Once student gained an understanding of the job requirements we engaged in a tutorial on how to apply stage make-up wounds to their peers. All students fully engaged in this tutorial and it is clear to see that they enjoyed themselves and also developed a set of new skills. Well done to all involved I was very impressed with your designs and hope that we didn’t frighten too many parents.
A form of expression
Our Drama activities teach students important skills such as cooperation, empathy for others, decision making and encourages an exchange of knowledge between students. When students participate in role-playing activities they develop communication skills, encourages leadership, team work, compromise, authentic listening skills and practice. However, it does not stop there. Drama teaches empathy, refines presentation skills, encourages self-acceptance and acceptance of others, and features of empowerment and pride in work. But the most important benefit of participating in Drama classes is that it develops students creativity and imagination.