NAIS Pudong Students Experience Singing in the Rain in Shanghai

Students from Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong (NAIS Pudong) recently enjoyed an unforgettable cultural experience at West Bund Theatre, where they attended the spectacular musical Singing in the Rain. The trip brought together students, parents, and teachers for an inspiring afternoon celebrating creativity, performance, and the magic of live theatre. 

For many students, it was their first opportunity to experience a large-scale professional musical performed live on stage. As the iconic story unfolded through dazzling choreography, vibrant music, and impressive stage effects, the audience was captivated from the very first scene. Sharing the experience alongside parents and teachers made the event even more special, strengthening the sense of community that lies at the heart of life at NAIS Pudong. 

A Rare Behind-the-Scenes Theatre Experience 

One of the highlights of the visit was an exclusive backstage tour led by the production’s stage manager from London’s West End team. Students and parents were given a fascinating look behind the curtain, discovering the incredible teamwork and technical expertise required to bring such a complex musical to life each night. 

During the tour, families learned about: 

- Stage mechanics and lighting design 
- Costume and props organisation 
- Rapid scene changes and backstage coordination 
- The technical precision required to run a live performance 

A particularly memorable moment was learning how the show creates its famous “rain” scene on stage. The production uses a sophisticated system to store, recycle, and distribute water live during the performance, allowing cast members to sing and dance under real rainfall while maintaining precise stage safety and timing. 

For many students, discovering the hidden world of theatre production was both fascinating and inspiring. 

Inspiring Future Performers and Creators 

For students already involved in school productions, music, and performing arts, the experience offered valuable real-world insight into professional theatre. Seeing the collaboration between performers, technicians, designers, and stage managers highlighted the many creative pathways within the performing arts. 

The visit demonstrated that a successful production relies not only on actors and singers, but also on experts in: 

- Stage management 
- Technical production 
- Set and costume design 
- Lighting and sound engineering 

Experiences like this help students imagine how their own talents might develop in future performances at school and beyond. 

Bringing Learning to Life Beyond the Classroom 

At NAIS Pudong, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Opportunities to experience world-class arts and culture play an important role in helping students develop creativity, confidence, and curiosity. 

Attending a professional musical together allowed students, parents, and teachers to share a moment of inspiration while deepening their appreciation for storytelling, music, and live performance. 

More than just a theatre trip, the visit to Singing in the Rain was a chance to spark imagination, celebrate creativity, and encourage the next generation of performers, artists, and theatre lovers.