World Theatre Day at Thornhill Primary School

World Theatre Day with Helen O’Grady Botswana HELEN O'GRADY DRAMA ACADEMY IS AFRICA'S LARGEST DRAMA SCHOOL. GLOBALLY, THERE ARE OVER 50, 000 STUDENTS ATTENDING CLASSES EACH WEEK! The Helen O'Grady Drama Academy celebrated World Theatre Day on March 27th during their Drama workshops at Thornhill Primary School. The Academy runs its international programme in some of South Africa's and Botswana’s top private and government schools, giving many children the opportunity to experience the theatre in the best way possible by acting themselves. Much of the love of theatre comes from our childhood experience and the Academy really tries to reinforce the benefits of this beautiful cultural experience. The future theatre-goers will come from the children and it is important to encourage children to enjoy this art form, which is not only entertainment but educational as well. On World Theatre Day, children aged 6-12 at Thornhill Primary School engaged in Mimes and Improvisations as well as activities to develop their speech, articulation and voice projection. All existing students were encouraged to “bring a friend” for the day to participate in the class, giving them the opportunity to experience the wonderful feeling of self-expression in a safe, comfortable and more importantly, FUN environment. Many parents came to watch and participate on this day as well. The Helen O'Grady Drama Academy is the only organisation of its kind in Africa. It was originally founded in 1979 in Australia, when Helen O'Grady, a trained teacher, drama teacher and actress, hired a hall and commenced affordable after school drama classes for young people from 5-18 years of age. Her aims were to provide a self-development drama programme encouraging: • Enthusiasm, energy and a positive approach to life • Ongoing confidence • Self esteem • Skill in verbal communication • Effective social interaction • Performance skills Her legacy continues and the Helen O'Grady Drama System has now become the largest worldwide drama school of its kind. With an extensive curriculum, dynamic teachers and easily accessible venues, this is a truly community-based organisation, with a strong emphasis on the care of all its students. To find out more about Helen O’Grady in Botswana contact 3916741 / marketing@rewaedu.org / www.dramaafrica.com