Breathing Life into Stories
A Year in High School Theatre at East Campus

Theatre is more than just performance—it is a fusion of storytelling, creativity, and collaboration. This year, our Drama Department on East Campus brought four diverse productions to life, each distinct in its themes yet unified in their passion and dedication. From Shakespearean magic infused with Indonesian artistry to a deeply psychological drama, from a dystopian vision of the future to a powerful Bolivian adaptation, each play showcased the transformative power of theatre.

Equus: A Psychological Exploration
Directed by Grade 12 students, Evie and Aidan
Equus, written by Peter Shaffer, follows a child psychiatrist as he attempts to treat a young man whose obsessive religious fascination with horses has led to a disturbing crime.
Bringing Equus to the stage was both a daunting and exhilarating challenge. This intense psychological drama, exploring themes of passion, worship, and societal constraints, demanded fearless performances and bold direction. The creative team worked to go beyond the play’s shocking premise, delving into the deeper emotional struggles of its characters and provoking thoughtful reflection.
From intricate lighting and sound design to ambitious set construction, every aspect of the production was carefully crafted to create a haunting and unforgettable experience. The dedication of the directors, cast, and crew ensured that Equus left a lasting impact on its audience.





The Chrysalids: A Dystopian Vision
Directed by Grade 12 students, Aahana and Aneira
The Chrysalids is a science fiction story about six telepathic teenagers navigating life in a post-apocalyptic society that clings to extreme beliefs. As they come to terms with their abilities, they struggle against the rigid conformity of their town, Waknuk, where any form of deviation is met with fear and rejection.
Bringing The Chrysalids to the stage was a journey of discovery, as the directors, cast, and crew worked together to create a vivid portrayal of this dystopian world. A story of resilience, fear, and hope, the production explored themes of difference and acceptance with depth and nuance.
The collaborative spirit of the design team played a crucial role in shaping the futuristic aesthetic, blending evocative lighting and soundscapes with intricate set pieces. The energy and commitment of the actors infused every scene with intensity, making the production a truly immersive experience.





The Cape Letters (Las Cartas del Cabo):
A Bolivian Connection
Directed by Grade 12 student and Bolivian scholar, Zoe
The Cape Letters (Las Cartas del Cabo) tells the stories of four women who battle the ghosts of loneliness after losing their loved ones on the battlefields of the Chaco War. This conflict between Bolivia and Paraguay in the 1930s left lasting scars, not only on the soldiers who fought but also on those who waited for their return. This Bolivian play explores the emotional struggles of these soldiers and the loneliness they face long after the war has ended.
Bridging continents and cultures, The Cape Letters was a deeply personal and extraordinary project. Adapted from Spanish and developed in collaboration with its original Bolivian author and our Bolivian scholar, this production broke boundaries and brought history to life on stage.
The entire process—from translation to performance—was a labour of love, made possible by a dedicated team of designers, technicians, and performers. Through its powerful storytelling and historical significance, the play resonated with audiences, showcasing theatre’s ability to transcend borders and connect us through shared narratives.






A Midsummer Night’s Dream:
Shakespeare Meets Balinese Tradition
The timeless comedy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream found a unique resonance in Indonesian culture, blending Shakespeare’s world with the spiritual landscapes of Bali. Drawing inspiration from the enchanted monkey forests, traditional art forms, and the mystical nature of the islands, the production wove elements of Kecak, Wayang Kulit puppetry, and Topeng into its storytelling.
Hanuman-inspired Puck, a vibrant jungle setting, and intricate temple designs immersed the audience in a world where nature and magic intertwined. The cast and crew’s journey was enriched by the expertise of renowned Balinese artists I Made Sidia and Rucina Ballinger, whose guidance in traditional performance styles deepened the authenticity of the production.





Sustainability in Theatre: A Greener Approach
Repurposing wooden slats from past productions for the stage flooring, which will be reused in future shows.
Crafting forest screens from biodegradable calico and natural pigments, reducing the reliance on synthetic dyes.
Constructing a banyan tree using hemp rope, a strong and biodegradable fiber with minimal environmental impact.
Designing and sewing costumes with repurposed garments from previous productions, overseen by our wardrobe manager and student designers.
The Heart of Theatre: Collaboration and Creativity
Behind each production was an army of dedicated individuals—students, teachers and designers—whose efforts extended far beyond what was visible on stage. From costume fabrication and prop construction to sound design and stage management, every detail contributed to the magic of Theatre. Special thanks go to all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that each production was a success.
Each of these plays was more than just a performance; they were explorations of culture, identity, and human emotion. Theatre continues to be a powerful force in our school community, and we look forward to seeing where the next creative journey takes us.
Explore more behind-the-scenes stories and stay updated on upcoming productions on the UWCSEA East Drama website!
Student Theatre Festival 2024
Cast and crew members
A Midsummer Night's Dream 2025
Cast and crew members