Dramatic arts
“Stories,” says the writer, Robert McKee, “are the currency of human relationships”. Our daily lives are strewn with scenes that surprise us and suspend belief, there is suspense and conflict we must resolve and when we come close to may seem the end, a cliffhanger holds on and we click to watch the next episode. Grappling with the mysteries of the human condition connects us to each other and the world to make meaning. Through stories around the campfire, the song and dance celebrating a sports victory and the memories of our forebearers gifted down the generations, Dramatic Arts reflects our lives back at us.
As a subject, Dramatic Arts assures learners of social engagement to nurture interpersonal skills vital for navigating the complexities of human relationships. Through communication that facilitates critical thinking, learners are afforded the chance to mature with emotional durability, respond with grit to life's surprises and be empathetic when encountering others. Through a variety of playtexts spanning diverse theatre genres and related practitioners in acting and physical performance, the expression of self is studied in context of world events. Central to mentoring our Dramatic Arts learners is the exploration of kinaesthetic, performance and technical elements so the imagination is translated into reality. Skills that are enhanced include problem-solving, conflict resolution, how to contribute ideas when working collaboratively so they may be heard while still attentive to others, managing emotional intelligence by stepping into a character’s life and applying these skills to any work-related context. Working with guest directors, choreographers, composers and film-makers, our learners have opportunities to experience the many offerings the subject presents.
Knowledge that Dramatic Arts holds may lead to employment in many sectors that involve working directly with people, well-being and creative industries which range from television news journalists, sports commentators, film and streaming platforms such as Netflix or influencers. Often Dramatic Arts learners enter areas such as marketing, public relations and law. The skills gained from performance and analysing text – both verbal and non-verbal are invaluable for life.
Under the direction of Mr Batista, Subject Head and HOD for Culture, Dramatic Arts has grown over the years to become recognised for cutting-edge performance work. An original physical theatre work, The Edge of Her Earth, was staged at the National Arts Festival followed by the short dance/hybrid film, As If the Rain Watched Over Her, which won an Ovation Award at the 2021 National Arts Festival. This was followed by the Drama tour to Willowmore where the Department filmed on location to create Veters Van Ampersand. Not one to celebrate quantifiable achievements, Mr Batista promotes appreciation for qualitative outcomes. He himself is a lifelong learner who is actively involved in theatre, film and screen dance, which is the focus of his MA in Drama currently underway, has attended workshops in Europe and around South Africa hosted by established Dance and Physical Theatre practices and is gaining invaluable experience specialising in Laban Movement Analysis with the Laban Institute for Movement Studies.
