Drama Program Philosophy

Using drama in education is as much about nurturing young people as it is about encouraging appreciation of the art form.  In her book, The Nature of Theatre, Vera Roberts writes, “Theatre activity…is potentially the most humanizing, the most life-enhancing, the most spirit-freeing of all possible activities…It stretches the mind and the heart.”

Harare International School ’s drama program uses an active, student-centered approach, emphasizing the personal development of its students through coaching competence in dramatic arts.  Classes follow a workshop format, offering students the opportunity for equal freedom, respect and responsibility.  The program strives to develop skills which have application in life as well as on the stage and which build greater self-esteem and confidence.

Through practical drama training students are challenged and stretched inside and out – body, voice, senses, feelings, intellect, imagination.  Students spend a great deal of time on acting skills, through which they learn to look beyond the obvious and recognize the complexity of human personality.  Teamwork, an integral element of the program, trains students to express themselves effectively, trust their decisions and respect those of others.  Frequent, informal presentations cultivate confidence and a relaxed sense of self.  Writing and design are included, furthering the depth and variety of the creative exercises while adding options for self-expression.  Exposure to the history of theatre further affords students an appreciation for drama as a vital means of human and social expression

  IB Theatre Arts and Grade Two students storytelling in the Drama Room

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