13 Drama classes facilitated by Jacqulyne Titus: In 2024, first-year students attended mid-week classes, while second- and thirdyear students participated in alternating weekend sessions. The primary focus for drama students was to develop their own production, guiding them through every stage—from initial concept to final performance. These efforts culminated in the presentation of their work at the annual showcase. Poetry classes facilitated by Richard “Quaz” Roodt: Weekly classes were held for both new and returning students, incorporating monthly slam competitions starting in the second semester. This journey culminated in a grand slam during the annual year-end showcase. The poetry curriculum emphasized contemporary South African themes, explored various forms and structures, and integrated performance techniques to enhance students’ creative expression. Contemporary Dance Classes facilitated by Fana Tshabalala: The dance course was offered in collaboration with the renowned Broken Borders Art Project, an internationally recognized organization founded and led by award-winning choreographers Fana Tshabalala and Thulani Chauke. The curriculum encompassed contemporary, African, and freestyle dance styles, with emphasis on cultivating a diverse movement vocabulary that draws from different eras and cultural influences. Adult Ballet facilitated by Ipeleng Merafe, Professor Catherine Botha, and Dr. Bailey Devon: Adult Ballet 1 and 2 were offered in partnership with Vole Ballet School, with a focus on choreography for the year-end showcase. Meanwhile, Professor Botha and Dr. Devon dedicated their efforts to refining technique and enhancing the dancers’ skills. Photography Club coordinated by Mbali Mchunu: The Photography Club aims to teach students fundamental photography skills, including the principles of photography, how to capture professional-quality images using a smartphone, and how to explore various themes through their creative vision. Sessions began in the second semester with a masterclass designed to equip students with essential photography techniques, culminating in a competition-exhibition where 12 images were selected from 145 submissions. Attendees of the poetry slam/photography exhibition had the chance to vote for their favourite image, and the photographer with the most votes received a Takealot Gift Voucher as a prize. Student Production ‘(R)evolution of Words’ is a dynamic and immersive poetry show designed to introduce students to the richness and diversity of poetry. This initiative celebrates the South African poetry canon while integrating contemporary voices that reflect and challenge the modern zeitgeist. The production bridges traditional and modern perspectives, offering a holistic exploration of poetic expression relevant to Grade 11 and 12 curricula while resonating with broader audiences. The production set out to inspire an appreciation for poetry among students and school learners, highlighting the relevance of poetry in contemporary discourse and provide an engaging educational experience by integrating performance with curricular content. The show’s visual components included shadow play using bodies, books as props, and musical instruments, analogue projection and instruments as furniture.
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