Sea Dragons Make Their Mark at the Nord Anglia Performing Arts Festival in Shanghai

The DAIS/DHS Performing Arts team adventured to Shanghai from March 11–13 to make their debut performance at the Nord Anglia Performing Arts Festival! This year's festival brought together 472 students from 11 Nord Anglia schools across China, all converging at Nord Anglia Chinese International School for an unforgettable experience.

Over the course of three vibrant days, our students immersed themselves in diverse ensembles including choir, orchestra, rock band, musical theater, and drama. They demonstrated creativity, collaboration, and commitment throughout workshops, rehearsals, and final performances.

Beyond the stage, students embraced the opportunity to connect with peers from across the country, learn from passionate instructors, and challenge themselves artistically. Here’s what some of our performers had to say:

“I enjoyed the part where we practiced all the songs because it was an opportunity to explore new aspects of singing and prepare for the festival. One song in particular, ‘Lighting,’ was very catchy - it kept replaying in my head, reminding me to practice. It also had a unique time signature that was confusing at first but very enjoyable once I got used to it.” – Maurice T., Grade 9

Selina L. (Grade 10) especially enjoyed “acting as a professional actor and editing the film.”

“Devising a story and a character from nothing was very fun. It was impressive watching other performances come together. Our musical theater team visibly improved each time they performed.” – Alex B., Grade 11

“I was in musical theatre during the time, and I would like to say that we were working very hard with everyone. We used three days to learn the song, the words, and the dance - then we performed!” – Michelle G., Grade 12

“I went to the choir workshop, and what we did was learn three songs - we had soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. On the last day, we performed the songs we had learned. I liked my hotel and enjoyed going crazy there with friends. If I can attend this next year, I wish to go to a buffet.” – Serena Z., Grade 6

“The teacher was very passionate - he knew how to bring out the best in us. Other students were easygoing and nice.” – Felix G., Grade 12

“I made some friends and worked with different students from other schools, which was meaningful to me. I learned to communicate and be active.” – Winnie K., Grade 12

“I loved singing with so many people who have strong singing skills. The teachers from different schools were really nice - I could learn new things from them. I wish I could have some solos next year.” – Nancy G., Grade 11

“I enjoyed learning new songs that were slightly different from what I’ve learned at our school, and I didn’t feel nervous with my school friends and teacher!” – Yubin Park, Grade 9

Whether performing in musical theatre, creating short films, harmonizing in choir, or devising original physical theater, our students represented DAIS/DHS with enthusiasm, curiosity, and artistry.

We are incredibly proud of our performing Sea Dragons - this debut was just the beginning!

Photo credit: NACIS Shanghai