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As part of the Juilliard–Nord Anglia Education Performing Arts Programme, Dover Court International School (DCIS) in Singapore recently welcomed Stephanie Cunningham, Drama Curriculum Specialist from The Juilliard School in New York. Stephanie led two days of energising drama workshops across both Primary and Secondary, bringing world‑class performing arts expertise directly into our classrooms and enriching students’ understanding of drama practice and performance.
Juilliard Specialist Brings Dynamic Drama Learning to DCIS
Reflecting on her experience with the DCIS community, Stephanie shared:
“The Secondary Drama Programme at Dover Court is very strong. The students are curious and interested. They’re very academically driven and have a lot of great ideas. I think drama is one of the most important subjects for a contemporary student of anything… Drama is going to help them with their collaboration, their communication, confidence, and the ability to think differently as the world’s challenges grow.”
IB Theatre Students Receive Professional-Level Feedback
In the Secondary School, Year 13 IB Theatre students had the opportunity to present their Solo Theatre Piece concepts to Stephanie. Acting as a professional director and mentor, she offered precise feedback on performance intention, staging choices, and creative direction – invaluable insight as students prepare for their final IB assessments.
Students also reflected on the impact of drama at DCIS. Cameron, a Year 12 IB Theatre student, shared:
“One of the strengths of the Drama Department at Dover Court is its versatility and the way the skills gained in drama benefit us beyond the classroom…. Drama and theatre have definitely helped with my confidence and public‑speaking skills.”
Year 12 Students Explore Global Theatre Traditions
Stephanie also worked with Year 12 students as they researched theatre practitioners and and performance styles for their Research Presentations. Students studying forms such as Kathakali and Commedia dell’arte benefited greatly from her specialist guidance, helping them connect theory to creative, practical work.
Amalya, another Year 12 IB Theatre Student, reflected:
“Drama at Dover Court is really engaging. The teachers genuinely care, and I really enjoy my lessons. I’m surrounded by a fantastic year group who are just as passionate about drama as I am. We also have access to some incredible opportunities – people come from all over the world to teach us and share insights into the professional drama scene.”
Juilliard Creative Classroom Brings Dramatic Irony to Life in Year 7
Stephanie led a hands-on Year 7 drama session focused on dramatic irony. Through interactive activities, students developed expressive choices, focus, and creativity — a wonderful example of how the Juilliard approach strengthens foundational drama skills in younger learners.
Year 6 Musical Theatre Cast Strengthen Skills for Shrek Jr.
In Primary, Stephanie worked with the Year 6 Musical Theatre cast as they rehearse for Shrek Jr., coming to the stage this May. Her workshops supported students in:
Students explored how characters move, speak, and interact - using physical theatre and expressive techniques to bring their roles to life. Stephanie also shared insights from her directing career and answered thoughtful questions about future pathways in the Arts.
The impact was immediate: students left feeling confident, energised, and ready to apply their new skills in rehearsals.
Celebrating the Juilliard – Nord Anglia Education Performing Arts Programme
We are proud to offer students in Singapore access to world‑class performing arts opportunities to develop as young artists through the Juilliard–Nord Anglia Education collaboration. Stephanie’s visit highlights the depth of this partnership and the exceptional performing arts learning it offers our students. We look forward to continuing to enrich our drama programme through future specialist visits and inspiring performing arts opportunities.
Discover More
To learn more about our world‑class collaborations, performing arts opportunities, and the many ways DCIS supports learning beyond the classroom, we invite you to:
We look forward to welcoming you to Dover Court International School.