The importance of drama in the education of children can’t be underestimated. The opportunity for role play, for interaction and communication ‘as somebody else’, the dressing up, the excitement and the team spirit as a group come together to create something wonderful is a joy to see, and this week at St. Peter’s has seen just that. The cast of Olivia under the wise guidance of Mr Hoban, Mrs Colwill and Miss Smith have had the most wonderful week. Dress rehearsals and performance at Taunton School have got them ready for the final performance at The Barnfield Theatre in Exeter. Many congratulations and thanks to the staff and the children who have all worked so hard to get the show together. And what a show it was!
Last night was simply an exceptional performance where the cast delighted the audience in all ways. The best Prep School drama production I have seen and a credit to excellence at St Peter’s. I felt hugely proud of everybody. A parent wrote “It felt like something magical happened!” and “The show was stunning and a reflection of the tremendous effort that you have all made!”
All teachers know the power of drama. When they ask the children to empathise when they ‘hotseat’ and ‘become’ Anne Boleyn facing the axe or the first man to walk on the moon. They understand others’ feelings and this helps them in a myriad of ways but, most important of all, it helps them with life. Children working together improve their communication and listening skills, their teamwork, their confidence and become extremely proud of each other and their place in the school.
Drama is a wonderful thing. From September Drama will be taught on the timetable from Year 1 up to Year 8. The children are thrilled and we can’t wait!
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