This term, Senior School Drama students have been privileged to experience Concordia College’s inaugural Drama Artist in Residence program. Adelaide theatremaker Ashton Malcolm held three workshops each with Year 10, 11 and 12 Drama classes as they created new self-devised film and theatre works. Responding to the experience, Zoe (12KNIC), remarked that she was able to “explore complex theatrical ideas” with Ashton and Hannah (11NMCG) welcomed the “outside perspective in our creative process”.

The Residency was a critical connection between classroom learning and the industry practices, with students responding positively to the ongoing connection with an arts professional. Keziah (11NMCG) affirmed that Ashton brought “industry professionalism [and] exercises used in professional theatre”. The result of the program was not only a development of dramatic skills and stronger performance outcomes, but also “hands-on advice and experience from an expert”, according to Eva (10NSHR) and a “strengthening of my confidence”, said Ava (10VNAR).

Meanwhile, when reflecting on her residency, Ashton commented, "I've loved collaborating with Daniel and his students. It has been invaluable to work with each class multiple times over the term, as it fosters genuine relationship building and allows me to see their confidence and skills grow. I am so impressed by the skill and creative intelligence of these students and hope to work with them again out in the professional arts industry!"

The products that students made were enriched by Ashton and we thank her for sharing her invaluable expertise this term!

Daniel Lynch
Drama Key Teacher