Performing arts are an important part of a well-rounded education. They give pupils a chance to express themselves and connect with others in meaningful ways. On stage, young people can explore new ideas, respond to what’s happening in the world and learn about different cultures.
At Hiba Academy Nantong, performing arts are woven into everyday school life. Our bilingual setting creates a lively, creative environment where pupils can try new things and learn in different ways. Through drama, they discover more about themselves and others. They learn empathy, communication and active listening—skills that will serve them long after the final curtain call.
"As educators, the most rewarding part of our profession is witnessing the pure, unbridled joy on pupils’ faces when they perform. One of our most important missions is to create a safe, inclusive and nurturing stage—a space where pupils can shed their inhibitions, courageously explore uncharted aspects of themselves, and unleash their full potential."
—Elena Tsina Christodoulides
Drama and Performing Arts Teacher
Bringing Literature to Life
At Hiba, performing arts bring stories off the page and onto the stage. Pupils dive into scripts and get to grips with what characters are thinking and feeling, often stepping into lives that are very different from their own. By exploring the experiences and challenges faced by these characters—whether from another country, a different era or a completely unfamiliar background—pupils develop a stronger understanding of the world outside their own.
This process encourages them to consider different viewpoints, reflect on how and why people make certain choices and appreciate the complexities of human relationships. Through this hands-on approach, pupils not only become more thoughtful readers but also more perceptive and considerate individuals, able to relate to others with greater understanding and respect.
The Spark of Creativity,
The Power of a Team
Rehearsals are full of ‘lightbulb’ moments. They are collaborative and cooperative. Pupils suggest ways to make scenes funnier, try new emotions or change their lines on the spot. They listen to each other’s ideas and build on them together. This teamwork brings out the best in everyone and often leads to brilliant, unexpected results.
Along the way, the pupils learn a valuable lesson: A great show never comes down to one person. Every show relies on teamwork—whether it is performing, designing costumes and sets, rigging lights or working in the sound booth. Pupils see first-hand how much they can achieve when they work together and trust one another.
Building Confidence and Courage
Performing can be nerve-wracking at first, but every show helps pupils grow. They learn to handle their nerves and turn them into energy. Each round of applause boosts their confidence; it’s a positive feedback loop. Soon, this newfound confidence shows up in lessons, presentations and everyday conversations. Pupils learn that expressing themselves clearly is a skill they can use everywhere.
The Art of Adaptability
Things don’t always go to plan on stage. Microphones can malfunction. The music might skip. Lines can be forgotten. When this happens, pupils learn to stay calm, think on their feet and help each other out. These moments are often the ones they remember most, and they teach valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability both on stage and in life.
Mastering Time Management
Putting on a show takes careful planning and lots of organisation. Pupils must balance learning their lines, practising their movements and attending rehearsals, all while keeping up with their other schoolwork and responsibilities. This experience teaches them how to prioritise tasks and manage their time effectively. Along the way, they develop good habits, such as setting goals, practising regularly and making the most of every spare moment. By the time the curtain rises, pupils have learned the value of hard work, commitment and perseverance.
