For many young arts lovers the 80s television series Fame, which followed the fortunes of students at the fictional New York City High School for the Performing Arts, offered a glimpse into another world where fun and creativity were at the core of the school curriculum.
But for pupils at Johannesburg's National School of the Arts this is a reality.
For many young arts lovers the 80s television series Fame, which followed the fortunes of students at the fictional New York City High School for the Performing Arts, offered a glimpse into another world where fun and creativity were at the core of the school curriculum.
But for pupils at Johannesburg's National School of the Arts this is a reality.
The school showcased their young talent at the Festival with the piece, Dance Spectrum, highlighting the country's cultural heritage and diversity.
Pupils at the school from Grade 8 to Grade 12 study a full range of academic subjects, in addition to their chosen specialities.
“The specialist studies foster the discipline and dedication which are prerequisites for academic achievement,” Manuel Norambuaenz a ballet teacher at the school, told Grocott's Mail this week.
The school has art, drama, dance and music departments.
“The cornerstone of the school is to produce well-rounded, disciplined, dedicated, intelligent theatre practitioners, dancers and artists.”
Pupils are exposed to performances of all varieties, local and international guest artists and teachers, workshops, corporate events and competitions.
“We are taught it is important to focus on performance, interpretation and style”, said Candice Schafer one of the pupils who performed at the festival.
Music pupils may specialise in any of the orchestral instruments. Pupils receive a minimum of nine hours a week on a specialised art subject, while also fulfilling their matric requirements.
“Where else are you going to find a combination of academics and arts,” said Kiruna Devar a dance pupil at the school.
