| Lyna Mohamad |
HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam consented to grace the Jerudong International School (JIS) Year 7 drama performance.
Their Majesties were accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah.
His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel was among the 131 students performing in their production of Aesop’s Fables at the auditorium of the JIS Arts Centre.
The production was created through the devising process; where students explored and developed ideas based on individual starting points. Each class was given a tale by Aesop, the Ancient Greek writer and philosopher and as a class they have developed their ideas into ‘workshopped’ performance pieces that they then performed.
From Year 3 to Year 8, all JIS students have one hour a week Drama lessons with a specialist Drama teacher. These lessons empower them with the skills of performance, communication, teamwork, collaboration, leadership and a wider understanding of our world.
Specifically, in Year 7, students have learnt how to create their own work and developed their use of the technical elements of Drama.
Head of Drama William Kemp said, “Drama is a subject that prepares students for the wider world. To be successful in Drama you have to be able to work with other people. ‘If you want to go fast, you go alone. If you want to go far then you go together’. We believe in and support every individual to be the best version of themselves.”
Principal of JIS Barnaby Sandow said, “It was a tremendous honour to have Their Majesties joining the Year 7 parents to see the production of Aesop’s Fables. The students have collaborated, challenged and inspired each other as they have created their versions of the classic tales.”
Head of Middle Years at JIS Richard Bourbon said, “The Year 7 production is a highlight of the school year at JIS. This provides the students with a wonderful opportunity to challenge themselves and to find their voice. The Year 7 students have responded in an exceptional manner and will have memories which will stay with them for a very long time,” he added.