Visual and Performing Arts
Edward Alleyn, founder of Dulwich College over 400 years ago, was a leading actor of his day and an influential figure in Elizabethan theatre. It is only fitting that Dulwich College International schools would continue this tradition of placing high value on the arts, with ample opportunities for students to participate at all levels. At DCB, the number and variety of offerings, the visiting professionals, the enthusiasm of the students, and the passion of our teachers make a strong visual and performing arts programme, with end results speaking for themselves!
MUSIC
At DCB, there are dedicated music teachers in Early Years, Junior School and Senior School. In regular music lessons, students have a chance to try out and learn different instruments as well as music composition. Facilities include large music rooms for classes and rehearsals, sound-insulated practice rooms for individuals and small groups, and two state-of-the-art theatres for rehearsals and performances.
With a wide range of ensembles and events, there are plenty of opportunities for students to shine on stage and build confidence.
Music Ensembles
Early Years:
- Early Years Choir (open to Year 2)
Junior School:
- Junior Strings
- Junior Band
- Junior Choir
- Honours Choir
Senior School:
- Symphony Orchestra
- Chamber Orchestra
- Female Voice Choir
- Male Voice Choir
- Chamber Choir
- Concert Band
- Big Band
- Plugged In (programme with multiple rock bands)
- Soul Band
- Jazz Combo
- Chinese Drumming Group (coming soon!)
Music Events
- Soloist Concerts
- Young Musician of the Year
- Dulwich Christmas Concerts
- House Battle of the Bands
- House Singing
- Spring Art Performances
- Sounds of Summer
- Moonlight Madness
- Founder’s Day
- Dulwich Gala
- Graduation Dinner
- Music and Drama Awards
- Ad hoc live entertainment to accompany student-led events
- Performances for external events such as for chambers of commerce
- And many more!
THEATRE
Drama and musicals create some of the most memorable moments for students. There are stage productions such as those by individual year levels in Early Years and in Junior School, as well as theatrical plays in Senior School. Two black box theatres provide the optimal space for lessons, workshops and rehearsals. Every year, there is an auditioned musical production in spring, alternating between Junior School and Senior School. The work ethics of students and staff culminate in entertaining performances of the highest calibre.Past musicals:
More theatre productions:
In addition, the collaboration between Dulwich College International and Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) Education allows DCB students to learn directly from practitioners.
FILM
With a dedicated film curriculum, a green screen film studio and professional equipment, students are able to take this art to the next level, working in teams just as professionals would. From original fiction to public service announcements to school trips and events, our students are learning how to best use this important medium to communicate and tell stories.
Film events:
- Film award “The Eddies”
- Chinese Film Festival
- Overnight Halloween filmmaking
READ MORE ABOUT PERFORMING ARTS NEWS
Dulwich College Beijing invites performing arts professionals to work with our students. Here are some of our recent special guests:
- Pablo Mielgo, renowned orchestral conductor
- Paul Jarman, acclaimed composer and conductor
- Roo Pigott, leading songwriter and music producer
- Roy McGrath Jazz Quartet
- University of Auckland Dance Group
DCI Network Performing Arts Events
- Dulwich Festival of Music (for Senior School students)
- MADD Festival (music, art, dance and drama for Junior School students)
- Dulwich Shakespeare Festival
- Diversity – a series of workshops with international performing arts professionals
- Dulwich Olympiad – held every four years with competition and collaboration in sports, art, music, drama
VISUAL ART
With dedicated art rooms, art teachers and assistant art teachers in Early Years, Junior School and Senior School, visual art displays have a dominating presence around campus. The extensive resources available allow students to exercise their creativity with a wide range of materials and media, working both individually and collaboratively. At DCB, art is not an isolated school subject. In fact, our Art in Hospital project was shortlisted for the International School Award 2019 in Community InitiativeHere are some recent news stories about DCB art:
