LEAP: Learning Experiences through Artistic Performance

By Katie Li

Daniel introducing a character and scenario through a story

For four evenings, Bronze Visioneers had the opportunity to learn more about self-expression and identity through the “LEAP” program, or “Learning Experiences through Artistic Performance”.

Led by long-time teacher, Daniel Kim, who also has lengthy experience in the performing arts, Bronze Visioneers were encouraged to consider themselves and the world around them through storytelling, performance, and self-reflection.

Daniel explaining the concepts of Leadership qualities

The basis of the sessions was built upon the main pillars of leadership and identity; history and understanding where they come from; responsibility, accepting differences and diversity; and seeing things from different perspectives.

Further activities provoking thought on the character and scenario discussed

After establishing basic characters, settings, and scenarios from storybooks, Visioneers were guided through elaborating on simple notions and putting themselves into the characters’ shoes. Exploring issues of bullying, acceptance, family, are more, Bronzes were invited to connect and empathise with the difficulties the characters from the book faced.

Dramatic tableau depicting bullies, bystanders, and their victim

 Bronzes also considered the many sides to a single story through dramatic tableaus depicting the situations explored. Through the sharing and creation of the scenes first-hand, not only were the feelings of the main character explored, but also secondary and background characters who have impacted vicariously by a single person or event.

Another dramatic expression on Bullying

Visioneers also had the chance to participate in activities in the role of certain characters. Asked to contribute pieces of advice, write letters, and even gift imaginary presents as if the character from the story was in front of them, many dug deep and reflected on their own selves in order to better understand and help characters from a story.

Discussing and debriefing on the things learnt through tbe sessions

Through analysing and reflecting on unfamiliar characters and scenarios, Visioneers were able to gain a better understanding of not only different people entrenched in different struggles of life, but also parted with a positive grasp of their identities and the role they play in the world and people around them.