Alma Mater International School learners continue to demonstrate poise and confidence as they excel in Drama and Speech after recently taking part in the Johannesburg Festival of the Arts.

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According to coach Melissa Nieuwoudt, the competition is an inclusive annual arts showcase co-ordinated by the Speech and Drama College of South Africa, where the learners excelled in a number of categories.

She said 11 learners took part in the competition, entering several categories such as individual public speaking, singing, arts, impromptu speaking and prescribed poetry. She added that the festival provided an open platform for established, new and emerging talent, creativity and future aspirations.

We look at various aspects, but the most important factor remains authenticity, inner ability to deliver something unique and different, following rubrics as well as the flow and fluency of their performances,” Melissa said.

She continued that following the competition, there was a gala evening event for all the winners and further noted that it was up to each learner how far they would like to progress, describing the platform as an opportunity to pursue their dreams. She encouraged learners to participate in as many competitions as possible for future growth and to build confidence.

Among the standout performers were Rudo Chipise, who achieved an A+ for singing; Keabetswe Segwagwe, who earned an A++ for individual public speaking; Mackenzie Daniels, who received an A for individual public speaking; Otlotleng Banda, who achieved an A+ for impromptu performance; and Onalerona Banda, who received an A for individual public speaking.

We are still awaiting our results for arts; however, there is no doubt the learners did exceptionally well,” Melissa concluded.