My mother knew that I enjoyed the Arts, especially Theatre, since I was 6 years old. She told me about SOTA and I decided to apply as I felt that SOTA offered a programme that was different from other schools. I have always loved Theatre because it is a platform for me to express myself differently. I decided to specialise in it because I wanted to learn more and delve deeper into Theatre, such as the different methodologies in dramaturgy.
When I first started out in SOTA, it was a really tough journey. It was a new environment and I found it hard to fit in. However, as I continued to study in SOTA, my perception changed. I realised that Theatre is not only about performance but also an actor’s discipline. When I first started, I focused on stylising a piece, but that did not always connect with the audience. Now, I pay attention to the clarity and intention of the piece and that makes a huge difference. My Theatre journey has become more enjoyable now as I mature.
I have always enjoyed the interactive lessons here. The teachers ensure that we are able to have fun while learning. This keeps the lessons interesting and enriching. For example, I learned in Theatre that collaboration is key to a successful performance because no man is an island. The incorporation of music, design and choreography is what keeps a performance captivating.
A significant challenge I learnt to cope with at SOTA is my dyspraxia. Dyspraxia affects my coordination and fine motor skills, alongside my visual spatial awareness. I developed my visual spatial awareness and coordination through Theatre. For instance, while performing, I learn to focus on a visual point so that I know where I am and who I am performing for.
One of my most memorable experiences was the Year 4 teacher-directed piece,
DNA (2020). I really enjoyed working on this piece because it was the first time that I performed a piece as a whole production and I was involved in the entire production from start to finish. I cherish the experience of working with my fellow Theatre friends in the cohort.
SOTA Year 4 Theatre production, DNA (2020)
Another unforgettable experience for me was playing for the Tchoukball B Division team in 2019. Even though our team did not win that year, it was still memorable for me because it was my first ever sports competition. I appreciate the friendships I have built in SOTA. The student culture here is vibrant and open. It provides a safe space for everyone to express themselves freely. No matter how different you are, the students accept you for who you are.
Razin (back, left) with the SOTA Tchoukball B Division Boys Team (2019)
I plan to pursue a theatre career in Singapore after graduating from SOTA. I hope that Theatre will continue to be accessible to everyone in Singapore. Theatre entertains, enlightens and educates everyone, it is not just for the privileged few. Many may think that the Arts are non-essential, but they forget that Arts give soul to society. Arts develop empathy. Without the Arts, we are no different from machines and robots.
To those considering SOTA:
SOTA is not just fun and games, it is also about hard work and the passion you have for the artform you choose to specialise in. Commitment, dedication, discipline, and teamwork are key to doing well in your artform.
Students specialising in Theatre will embark on a learning journey that includes aspects of performing, directing, playwriting, critique, stage management, and production design.
Students will gain a creative appreciation and respect for a wide range of theatre traditions, dramatic styles, forms, processes, practices, conventions, and values through practical experience and develop their creative voice and vocabulary. They will discover the value of theatre in a range of social and cultural contexts and develop skills and values for theatremaking and lifelong learning.
Find out more about SOTA at our e-Open House, held online from 10 April to 18 May 2021
HERE.
READ OTHER STUDENTS' EXPERIENCES.
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Photos provided by Razin Sirhan