An innovative approach was adopted in managing the enormous task of staging the Ruyton/Trinity musical Thoroughly Modern Millie. Casting occurred in 2009 and in the week prior to the commencement of Term 1 2010 a rehearsal intensive was held. The Intensive allowed the creative team to lay the choreographic and musical foundations for all the big production numbers. This initiative proved invaluable in alleviating some of the stress experienced by attendance issues due to other interruptions, such as camps and sporting events leading up to production time. The emphasis to place the focus on the performers’ expressive skills through basic set and simple theatre technology did not disappoint. The Royce Theatre was filled to capacity. Audiences witnessed an outstanding display of talent, commitment and unbridled energy and enthusiasm from all cast and crew members.
Another spectacular performance event was the Trinity Senior School Play Shakespeare Dreaming. This was a superb blend of scenes from Shakespeare’s comic and tragic plays. Students rose to the challenge of interpreting the language and transfixed the audience with their characterisation and the striking visual of rich costume, set and make-up designs.
Ruyton’s Got Talent and our Drama Club, continued to attract a wide variety of participants and observers under the inspired leadership of Drama Captain, Emily Baker. She is to be commended for her inclusive, positive and inspired approach to all activities as she encouraged participants from all Year Levels to become involved in a wide variety of performance settings.
The Year 11s revelled in the opportunity to test out their leadership skills in undertaking creative and organisational control of PAHF (Performing Arts House Festival). Each House worked tirelessly to showcase the incredible talent of their cast and crew, whilst maintaining a dynamic and infectious House Spirit. The very structure of this event underpins Ruyton's philosophy to provide girls with a supportive environment where they are able to demonstrate initiative, confidence and resourcefulness; and where they work independently and collaboratively, guided by a code of shared values.
The Ruyton Drama Department is indebted to the generous support of the parent body. From Year Level Showcases and the numerous Junior School productions, to the full scale extravaganzas of Senior School plays and musicals, no event is possible without the input from the many parents who selflessly contribute to the performance experience. Thank you to all parents who volunteered their time, but especially to Ms Kim Baker, Ms Rosemary Willis and Ms Mandy Farrell.
Mrs Christine Lucas-Pannam Director of Drama
Drama Learning Curriculum and Learning
Drama Learning Differentiation
The Arts Learning School Comparative Results
Drama Learning Student Achievements
Drama Connecting Parent Groups