“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7
Drama at Mandurah Baptist College is more than just performing on stage. Drama at MBC is creating opportunities, developing skills and engaging with the community. Every student that experiences Drama at MBC is given opportunities to express themselves in a safe environment and develop their creative side, whilst having fun and being challenged to always be the best version of themselves. Whether it be in an educational activity that broadens their mind, to learning a theatre style, or rehearsing for a production or showcase, Drama at MBC involves the student and challenges them to value process over product and see the significance in embracing creativity and the Arts beyond school. Students are facilitated by staff to become lifelong learners and have a positive mindset in their studies from Year 7 through to Year 12. Drama allows students to value the importance of embracing and seeking opportunities inside and outside of the College.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”-Albert Einstein
In a world which is focused on product and the next best thing; Drama is a platform that can stimulate creativity in problem solving, an outlet for emotions and to develop skills in critical thinking, tolerance and empathy. Drama is a subject that can build confidence, help with concentration, refine numeracy and literacy skills, encourage collaboration, facilitate relationships and networks within the community. We need critical thinkers and 21st century learners, and the Arts are subjects that develop skills in communication, team work, problem solving and leadership, which are all traits potential employers look for in candidates. The Arts at MBC endeavours to empower, educate and engage every student throughout their years at the College.
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” – Maya Angelou
Another benefit of Drama at MBC is that students get to perform in our amazing theatre and give back to the community. We have come a long way from our humble beginnings of Drama being taught in a Science room near the Library. Drama at MBC has a vision of performing and involving students in the process of a production, showcase and musical. Students get to paint sets, bump in and out, be a part of the backstage crew and most importantly, work together to have ownership of a performance. Drama is hard – it requires students to be focused and push themselves, but the benefits of seeing students thrive in Drama is amazing. We invite senior groups to community performances and fund raise for local charities that make a difference in our Binjareb region. The best part about Drama at MBC is seeing a student develop and thrive over the years, and seeing the joy in their face when they succeed at a goal or feel valued as they are a part of something bigger than themselves.
Written by Kylee Retallack, Head of Year 10 – Drama Teacher
