At the start of the school year, we welcomed acclaimed British choreographer, James Bennett, and West End theatre star, Noel Sullivan, to the Tanglin Drama Department for a five-week residency.

Over the past few years Drama’s profile has risen in the school. More students are opting for Drama GCSE, IB and A level, there are more CCA performances, and a wider understanding from both students and parents that Drama teaches about collaboration and communication, as well as creativity. To match this ambition Tanglin has invested in and improved the range of drama teaching spaces.  This Summer the school moved the Drama department to new premises in the Nixon Building and introduced a dance studio with a sprung floor, a White Studio, a new Black Box drama studio; and the Chandran Theatre named after the former Head of the Infant School, which can seat an audience of 140.

The Drama department were very passionate about the impact and creative contribution that Noel and James could offer Tanglin students and put a proposal to The Foundation for funding. The pair have not disappointed. Every learning moment with them has been filled with fun, energy, and creative inspiration. Their dance and drama expertise is evident with their ability to seamlessly choreograph over 100 Y12s in an impromptu street dance routine, guide students through initial rehearsals for the upcoming performance of Chicago, or leading a dynamic outdoor rehearsal of Matilda in a Y5 Drama CCA.

Last night saw the official opening of the new drama spaces, with a performance of an original musical theatre piece created by James and Noel.  ‘Tanglin Housestory’ incorporated songs from well-known musicals, and was inspired by the history of the Tanglin Houses intertwined with stories celebrating the life of our founder, Miss Griff. Performed by over sixty students from Y7-13, with parents and staff in attendance, it was the perfect way to showcase the curtains going up on the new Drama spaces at Tanglin.