Niagara high school students attended creative workshops in the Dramatic Arts studios at Brock’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing during a theatre education workshop on Thursday, Dec. 12, including a session led by educator Teodoro Dragonieri in Commedia dell’arte mask movement. Niagara high school students weren’t waiting in the wings at a recent theatre festival held at Brock; they had the spotlight.
The second annual Niagara Regional STAR Festival (School Theatrical Arts Recognition) brought secondary school students and teachers to Brock’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts (MIWSFPA) on Dec. 12.
Presented by the Theatrical Arts Education Association and MIWSFPA, the full-day event was organized by Brock Dramatic Arts (DART) Associate Professor and Scenographer David Vivian and Tracy Garratt, Program Leader for the Arts, School Culture and Student Engagement with the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) and a teacher at A.N. Myer Secondary School in Niagara Falls, Ont.
The festival activities were the result of collaboration between local professional artists, educators and arts organizations, including the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre and the Shaw Festival.
Following workshops in MIWSFPA studio spaces led by professional artists, Brock alumni, regional educators and theatre designers, students presented their performances and productions in the categories of Technical Theatre and Design, Musical Theatre Acting — including monologues, duet and ensemble — and one act plays.
Garratt says these opportunities to engage with diverse narratives and characters will help students develop empathy and critical thinking skills, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around them and inspiring change in their communities.
“As a passionate teacher in the arts, I believe in the transformative power of theatre and the joy of participating in festivals that celebrate creativity. Theatre not only nurtures artistic voices, but also serves as a vital educational tool that helps students explore complex social issues and inequities,” she said.
Vivian said the talent of participants was impressive, with students singing one moment and sharing their design and production skills the next.
“We can’t wait to see what these emerging artists will bring to the major stages of the world in the future,” he said.
The Brock and Niagara community are invited to the upcoming three-day National South STAR Festival held at MIWSFPA in May 2025. For details, visit Theatrical Arts Education Association.
