Visual and Performing Arts

Performing Arts will be a fundamental module within Benenden School Guangzhou’s co-curricular (CCA) programme, and one which aims to introduce students to a possible range of new experiences as well as make them more confident, communicative, and empathetic through the study of music, drama, dance and theatre. We will employ the very best specialist teachers who will utilise our state-of-the-art facilities to enable our students to get a near-professional experience in all their creative endeavours. There are also opportunities through co-curricular activities to get involved in the production and technical aspects of running performances and concerts. 

 

1. Arts and Design

For those students who join a CCA under the Arts & Design umbrella, we hope they will strive for originality in order to discover and develop creativity and aim for them to be introduced to a variety of experiences, exploring a range of Fine Art media techniques and processes through group and personal projects. Art at Benenden School Guangzhou is a creative and practical subject which demands visual intelligence, independent thinking and technical ability. In Arts & Design CCAs, students will work with a wide range of media and techniques which will include painting, drawing, printmaking, collage, sculpture, digital media and textiles. Students will be encouraged to be reflective about their own development and the work of other artists. They will be required to sustain intense interest, develop resilience and an understanding that creative practice is often challenging, and always purposeful. 

2. Music

At Benenden School Guangzhou, your child will have endless opportunities to enhance their understanding and passion for music through our CCA programme which will be available to all ages, from kindergarten up to sixth from and will be delivered by specialist music teachers. We will provide a rich experiential environment for our students to discover the essential joys and benefits of music. Students will be encouraged to learn music composition and production with the help of industry-standard technologies. In addition, as part of our co-curricular package, engage in traditional to contemporary music styles as well as the opportunity to further cultivate their talents through school musical theatre, choir, orchestras, jazz band and much more.  

3. Drama

As part of our co-curricular activities programme, we will offer instruction in drama for all year groups. We will provide a safe, non-judgmental environment and encourage full participation for all students to explore their theatrical side. We provide expert teaching and make use of our modern and unparalleled facilities presenting opportunities for students in our theatre, Blackbox room, drama rehearsal rooms or students working as support 'staff' in our broadcasting or theatre technician’s room. Our annual calendar of plays and musical theatre productions ensure that our students will have ample opportunities to showcase their talents and actively support and take part in a variety of events during the year. Our drama programme will be based on what the best elite schools in England and the US are doing to ensure a prestigious premium programme for all those interested. 

4. Dance

Dance is an equally important part of our performing arts CCA programme and is a powerful outlet for expression and a rich medium for telling stories. Dance is an avenue through which students can learn about other cultures and students who study dance will develop meaningful concepts of self, human relationships, and physical environments. More importantly, they will gain self-confidence as they learn the value of practice and discipline. We aim to offer classes for those interested, in a range of dance forms, from ballet to hip hop, and for students in all year groups. Opportunities for live performance are available throughout the school year as well.