EDUCATION: RANGITOTO COLLEGE
Performing Arts adapts to ever-changing Covid-19 challenges Implementing our co-curricular Performing Arts programmes within Covid-19 restrictions has been challenging, with many aspects of music, dance, and drama being heavily restricted and in many cases limited to outdoor participation only. After the initial few weeks of confusion, we gradually settled into a new reality in which many of our activities depended on how pleasant the weather was. Used to dwelling in studios, theatres, and small basement rooms this was not something we had ever had to take into account. With the aid of masks, sanitiser, sneeze screens, pegs, sunblock, and a real “can-do” attitude from students and staff, it soon became completely normal to see dance troupes leaping on the field, drama ensembles learning lines outside the upper tuck shop, and the woodwind and brass sections of the orchestra setting up under the covered walkway outside MU3. Gazebos were set up under the trees by the flagpole and outside the auditorium to allow three breezy studios in which we could house wind, brass, and vocal tuition. Despite the unusual start to 2022, we eventually enrolled and auditioned all our co-curricular music, dance, and drama groups, and timetabled 420 enrolments for instrumental, vocal, music technology, and music theory tuition. Students and staff have been eager to accept whatever compromises are necessary to get rehearsals underway and to start our journey back towards performing for audiences.
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Issue 130 - May 2022 www.channelmag.co.nz
Thank you to our Performing Arts staff and students for remaining positive in the face of so many obstacles. To parents, families, and our school community, we hope to be able to entertain you in person, on stage, and indoors in the coming months.
