APAC theater is a diverse and accepting community of students with amazing theatrical (and often singing and dancing) talents that have taken upon themselves to show the international community what creative genius was in store. Although COVID limited traditional independent rehearsal time for schools, administrators kept APAC’s creative spirit by letting students produce plays within 3 days of APAC, led by Ms. Tamara Stuniski (AISG), Mr. Kirk Holland (SASPX), and Ms. Nita Dewse (SASPD).
Teachers provided a vibrant collection of workshops based on three core elements: music, dance, and monologue writing. These freeform workshops facilitated the theme of identity and movement.
Ms. Kristina Erny and Mr. Sam King from CISS led an introspective monologue writing workshop, where students focused on narrowing their life story into several life-changing points. Movements were added to assist the monologue, to feel the touch of a long-gone friend, a frustrated parent, or an evocative object. Music were played, and students waddled through their own story via moods and perspectives.
A specially arranged music workshop hosted by Ms. Lauren Bordenko (SASPD), who is also a conductor for APAC Band, provide students opportunities to ‘feel the music’ and create a narrative surrounding provocative rhythms.
APAC Dance’s coach Ms. Yun (SASPD) was invited to host the dance workshop. Lines and arrangements were made for students to press the bounds of their bodies, as well as challenge the use of tutting and miming in a choreographed piece.
Thespians from all four schools were mixed to produce their own pieces under the theme of “change,” which in turn had smaller more localized stories that struck the audiences with its fluctuating emotions. The show was performed on the last day for parents and students from each school, included scenes focused on the actors’ identities as third-culture students, dealing with the conflicts of everyday life, and a struggle to find where to call home.
APAC has always boasted its ability to connect international students around the world, and even with COVID this is still true. The last day was met with enthusiastic embraces, kisses, and cries for long-time and newly-made friends that were able to unite through this event.
After the official APAC, students had the privilege to stay and watch the APAC Band performance. APAC concluded by celebrating the participation of seniors by having each senior stand and take an ovation.
Written by Vivien Yeung