Drawbridge

A drawbridge was a doorway to a castle or fort.
When the drawbridge was lowered
it allowed people to leave or enter.
It was made by skilled craftsmen
and was strong & sturdy.
Once inside, you were in a safe place.

Entertainment

An agreeable occupation for the mind;
a diversion, or amusement.
An exhibition or performance of some kind.
Hospitable provision for the wants of guests.
To hold in the mind; harbour; cherish.

'Just living is not enough' said the butterfuly, 'one must have sunshine freedom and a little flower.'
Hans Christian Anderson

KARYN JOHNSON - THE DIRECTORS STORY

This is the beginning of my 5th official year of my own drama school. As I reflect on these years, I am thrilled by how we have all grown. Over 300 students have walked through my doors and each year we have ventured into new areas of performance and location. And it is amazing how students who were 6 are now 11, students who were 11 are now 16 and me … I am still 29.

So, in my little corner of the world, In a safe and friendly setting, kids and teens can have the chance to experience the thrill of live theatre. Whether this be on the stage, behind the stage or in the audience.

With over 30 years of performance experience, I still learn from my students every week. I have worked in live theatre, street theatre, on TV shows, in movies, in commercials, on catwalks and on tours.

Teaching in public schools, churches, historic sites, conventions, museums and deportment schools has given me a passion to both educate and entertain.

Karyns Awards include:

• Wakakirri - National Winners 2007
  NSW State Winners 2004, Silver Winners 2005, Silver Winners 2009
• Galston Eisteddfod 1st place High School Choir
• Trans Tasman Dramatic Actor of the Year 2000
• Princess of Sydney Quest - Finalist 1987
• Miss Australia Pageant - Finalist 1987
• Miss Northgate - 1st runner up 1986

' I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.'
Oscar Wilde

CLASS SCHEDULE

All classes at The Hut unless indicated.

DATES FOR 2012

Here are the important dates for 2012

FEES AND COSTS FOR 2012

• School Day Classes = $130 per term
• Holiday Drama Class = TBC
• Holiday Deportment = TBC
• Performance Tickets = $12 per person
• Showcase Entry = $15 per family
• Costume Hire = $10 per student
• T-Shirts = $12 [crew & castle]
• Script Copies = $5 per script
• Eisteddfod = TBA
• Photo Shoot = TBA

FORMS & NEWSLETTERS

Forms - 2012

Term 1 2012 Invoice

Term 1 2012 Youth Theatre Invoice

Student Information and Permission 2012

New Student Registration Form 2012

Alladin 2012 Invoice

Forms - 2011

Term 3 2011 Invoice

Term 4 2011 Invoice

Term 2 2011 Invoice

Term 2 2011 Youth Theatre Invoice

Student Information and Permission 2011

New Student Registration Form 2011

Term 1 2011 Invoice

Term 1 2011 Youth Theatre Invoice

Newsletters - 2010

Term 4 2010 - Newsletter

Term 2 2010 - Youth Theatre Newsletter

Term 1 2010 - Newsletter

Forms - 2010

Term 4 2010 Invoice

Term 4 2010 Youth Theatre Invoice

Term 3 2010 Invoice

Term 3 2010 Youth Theatre Invoice

Term 2 2010 Invoice

Term 2 2010 Youth Theatre Invoice

Student Information and Permission 2010

New Student Registration Form 2010

Term 1 2010 Invoice

Newsletters - Prior

Term 4 2009 - Newsletter

Term 2 2009 - Newsletter

Term 1 2009 - Newsletter

Forms - 2009

Term 4 2009 Invoice

Term 3 2009 Invoice

Term 2 2009 Invoice

Student Information and Permission 2009

New Student Registration Form 2009

Term 1 2009 Invoice

Shows

Term 2 2009 Mid Year Show RSVP

Ticket Ordering Info

Show Helpers info

Dinner Orders

Forms - Prior

Wakakirri Audition Form 2008

Photo Order Sheet 2007

Contractor Registration Form 2008

Shows - 2008

Catwalk Details

Term 4 2008 Showcase RSVP

Ticket Ordering Info

Performance Newsletter

EVENTS PAST & PRESENT

GALSTON EISTEDDFORD

In 2009, Drawbridge tentatively stuck a toe into the waters of the Eisteddfod pond. Wow, what a ripple effect. What a wave sensation!!! Not only did we dominate the programme but we walked away with many awards. We had 27 performers, participating in 38 items. What an incredible learning curve and amazing performance experience.

Galston Eisteddfod is held in the last week of October. Students can perform set pieces or either own choice. They can do poems, character recitals, duets, Shakespeare, or bible readings. I will organize a junior high choir.

I will notify all students when dates and syllabus are released for this year. Last year, I dealt with all of the administration for our enrollments, this year; each student will be responsible for themselves.

PEATS RIDGE FESTIVAL

I worked at ‘Kids on the Hill’ at the Peats Ridge Festival during December 2009.

What an amazing, family friendly, fringe festival!

I hope to take a band of young performers and teachers with me this year.

CONTACT DETAILS

Postal: PO Box 2201 Normanhurst, 2076

LINKS TO OUR FRIENDS!

Nutrimetics: Kathy Nolan 9980-5242 (kathy@anolan.com)

Formal Student Images by Geoff Bellingham (stagepics@hotmail.com)

Reid Johnson - Speech Writing and Coaching Pharos Flame

Dare Video - Weddings, events and corporate videography Dare Video

VENUES

Pennant Hills - Normanhurst - Thornleigh - Carlingford - Westleigh - Hornsby - Gordon

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Fee policy

• Fees are strictly payable in advance. Failure to pay fees by the due date may result in the loss of class position.
• Fees may be paid by cash, cheque or direct deposit. Please place all cash and cheques in GREEN LETTER BOX in the teaching area.

Class attendance

• Regular class attendance is vital for students to keep abreast of their script work, performance blocking and in consideration for their classmates.
• Students must be punctual to classes to ensure they receive a complete warm-up.

Mobile Phones and Computers

• Electronic devices are only permitted in class, for educational purposes, and at the discretion of the class teacher. Phone calls and text messages may not be taken, unless it is an emergency. Arrangements for picking up students should be made before or after class.
• No photos may be taken, of other students, on mobile phones, during class time.
• Students will not be allowed to use teacher’s phones, except in an emergency. ‘mum is running late’, is not an emergency.

Class observation

• Since drama can be an expressive & vulnerable sport, friends and parents are not permitted in the main teaching areas during class time.

Water Bottles

• It is a good idea for students to bring their own named water bottle to class especially during the humid summer months.

Clothing

• Drama Students should wear comfortable clothing that enables them to move. Skirts are not advised, unless it is to suit your character. Please only wear school uniform if you have no chance to change.
• Deportment Students should bring a variety of shoes to practice walking. On the final day of classes they should bring 3 outfits : sporty, casual, and formal.

When Waiting For Classes

• In consideration of others please wait quietly in the Green Room downstairs until your class is called. [ or outside the glass doors of TWPS library].

Safety

• To help make our job easier, please try to be on time to collect your children. For everyone's peace of mind please ask your children to wait quietly inside the Hut or library to be collected after class, rather than out in the car park. We cannot keep an eye on the children if they are waiting or playing outside the building.

Health, Safety, Medical & Injury policies

• Drawbridge Entertainment is not liable for personal injuries sustained or any loss of, or damage to, personal property whilst on the premises.
• Drawbridge Entertainment aims to provide a safe environment to reduce the risk of injury. It should be recognized by all students, parents/guardians that drama by its very nature can carry a risk of injury or accident.
• It is the responsibility of the student, parents/guardians to notify the teacher in the event of an injury or medial condition prior to class.
• A First Aid Kit is available but we do not dispense Panadol, pain relief or medication to any students.
• Drawbridge Entertainment students are under supervision whilst in class time only. Teachers and staff are not responsible for students outside their allocated class time.
• For safety reasons, students must be collected from inside the building. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure their student does not wait outside the building.

Queries

• To help us ensure classes run to schedule, please do not approach teachers during class changeovers. Queries can be directed to the Director, by calling

Conduct

• Drawbridge Entertainment strives to maintain a friendly environment for learning. If you ever have any concerns about student behaviour, please contact the Director.
• Any students displaying inappropriate behaviour may be asked to have time out of the lesson. If behaviour continues they may be asked to leave the school.
• We have a "no touch" policy during class time. I understand that students get excited during activities but hitting and pushing is not acceptable. This is s good social skill for children to learn and also a great dramatic skill to master, ie how to influence anothers actions by summoning, rather than grabing.

Application and Dismissal policy

• Drawbridge Drama maintains the right to dismiss any student or parent who breaches any of the stated terms and conditions, damages property or causes disruption to classes of a severe nature. The decision is at the sole discretion of the School Director.

Studio Care

• Smoking, eating and animals are not permitted on the premises. Any deliberate damage to school property will result in instant dismissal.

Newsletters

• It is the responsibility of parents and students to read the newsletters. Newsletters are distributed via email. A copy of the current newsletter is available on the website.

Performance & Costume polices

• Drawbridge Entertainment has an annual school performance at the middle of each year. Participation is mandatory.
• Each student participating in the Mid-Year performance is required to attend their classes, dress rehearsals and all relevant performances.
• At the end of the year there will be a Showcase and Graduation night. Also, we will participate in a local Christmas Event.
• Participation in the Showcase and Christmas Event is optional, however, students are strongly recommended to participate to develop their presentation and stage skills.
• A small costume levy applies in Terms Two & Four, and performance tickets are an additional cost. Some costumes may require sewing or purchase by parents.

Photography & Filming of Students

• For safety, privacy and copyright reasons, photography or filming of students in class and at concerts is not permitted. Parents will be advised when private photography is permitted.

• Please indicate on your enrolment form your preference for the Director's use of your child's image.

BEGINNER'S DEPORTMENT

Deportment is more than manners and more than Modeling.

Have fun while you learn how to strut on a catwalk, practice applying make-up, how to care for your body and why it is important to say thank you.

Classes are held in the holidays. Junior classes [generally primary aged] are in the morning and Senior classes [generally upper primary and high school] are in the afternoons.

You will have the opportunity to participate in a professional photo shoot and perform on stage in the Mid-Year and End of Year performances - in Term 2 and Term 4. Also, look out for Modeling at the Mall

Once you have completed the Beginners Course you can join the Advanced Deportment in the holidays or once a week during term time.

ADVANCED DEPORTMENT

The next step

In Advanced Deportment students will build on the skills they have learnt in the Beginners Course. This will include make-up, fashion, social skills and catwalk.

In addition you will participate in some of the following classes: job skills, hair care, manicures, personality and dinner etiquette.

Classes in the holidays are held on 2 afternoons from 1pm - 4pm.

You can participate in a professional photo shoot and perform on stage at our Mid-Year and End of Year performances - in Term 2 and Term 4. Also, look out for Modeling at the Mall.

ADULT DEPORTMENT

Due to popular demand, this year we will be introducing Adult Deportment & Mother-Daughter Classes. Get some fashion tips, practice skincare and make-up and learn how to walk with grace and confidence.

These will be later in the year, with a chance for you to strut your stuff at the End of Year Showcase.

Keep watching this space and/or join our mailing list so we can keep you updated.

MODELING AT THE MALL

We are currently negotiating with shopping centres, to help us host a model quest on their premises. These will be lots of fun for all the local girls involved and a great chance for our students to practice their performance skills.

Keep watching this space and/or join our mailing list so we can keep you updated.

INFANTS DRAMA

Students in school Years 1 & 2

[Students in Kindergarten at school are invited to join in Terms 3 & 4]

All drama classes begin with a warm up routine. classes are suitable for both beginners and experienced performers.

During Term 1 and Term 2 we will be auditioning and rehearsing for our Mid Year play performance.

Terms 3 and 4 will be using masks and mime and preparing fun items for the End of Year Showcase and Christmas events.

Wear comfy clothes and leggings or sports shorts under skirts and dresses

PRIMARY DRAMA

Students in school years 3 - 6.

The mixed class includes all four years.
Lower Primary is Years 3 & 4.
Upper Primary is Years 5 & 6.

All drama classes begin with a warm up routine. classes are suitable for both beginners and experienced performers.

During Term 1 and Term 2 we will be auditioning and rehearsing for our Mid Year play performance.

Terms 3 and 4 will be using masks and mime and preparing fun items for the End of Year Showcase and Christmas events.

Wear comfy clothes and leggings or sports shorts under skirts and dresses

HIGH SCHOOL DRAMA

Students in years 7-10

[Older students will be catered for in the future]

All drama classes begin with a warm up routine. classes are suitable for both beginners and experienced performers.

During Term 1 and Term 2 we will be auditioning and rehearsing for our Mid Year play performance.

Terms 3 and 4 will be using masks and mime and preparing fun items for the End of Year Showcase and Christmas events.

Wear comfy clothes and leggings or sports shorts under skirts and dresses

DRAWBRIDGE YOUTH THEATRE

An exciting new venture commencing in 2010.

Designed specifically for students in Year 9 and above.

You will have the chance to work with other talented teenagers. This will include workshops, street theatre and a theatre performance.

It is an unique opportunity to perform in a mid-year show with your own class, work backstage for the other youth class and be part of the end of year showcase with the entire Drawbridge school.

HOLIDAY DRAMA, DANCE AND ACTING WORKSHOPS

UPDATE UPDATE
STAY TUNED FOR THE 2011 PROGRAMME!

I am very excited to inform you, that these holidays, we are running workshops with some guest teachers. And a chance to explore some of the other Performing Arts, MIME and DANCE.

To book in for this fantastic programme or if you have other questions please .

CHRIS DARE = FILM Having worked on stage and in front of the camera, Chris has now made the move to work as director and cameraman. He has had his own company for 4 years and will be able to weave his magic into the adverts, soap opera scenes and documentaries that we practice in class.

RACHAEL PEGLEY = DANCE Rachael has been dancing for 14 years in the styles of ballet, jazz and tap. She currently teaches jazz and ballet. She has extensive performing experience at the McDonalds Performing Arts, State Dance Festival, Met North, and the School Spectacular. A regular teacher at a local dance school, she brings youth, enthusiasm and creativity to all her classes.

KARYN JOHNSON = DRAMA A regular drama teacher at local primary schools and after school drama classes. With experience in Theatre, TV and Movies, karYn knows how to find hidden talent, harness the over zealous and bring out the best in all her students.

DANCE AND DRAMA = Wed 7th – Thur 8th – Fri 9th April

ACTING FOR FILM & TV = Wed 14th – Thur 15th – Fri 16th April

All classes are held @ The Hut … cnr Dartford & Pennant Hills Rd, Normanhurst.

$30 for one session, $50 for two, $65 for three.

Students can join one class … or all three … or all six.

Suitable for students aged K – 12.

Classes run 9am – 3pm for Infants and Primary Students.

Classes run 9am – 4pm for High School Students.

DRAMA ON LOCATION

This is an exciting new venture. Drama shouldn't be confined to the studio, so these classes will be at fun locations. For example, learn to ride and care for a horse while acting out a play about horses.

Locations to be confirmed. Keep watching this space and/or join our mailing list.

DRAMA AT GREENWOOD

Drawbridge is now doing regular performances at Greenwood Aged Care Facility in Normanhurst. We will be doing a 45 - 60 minute show each week in the dining room. Students will be asked to join us on different days but everyone is welcome to join us any day.

During 2011 we will be trialing theatre sports, talent quests and performing some items from Pinafore Pirates.

Then in 2012 we will establish a set routine. This will be a four week cycle with a set show on the same week each month. I have just purchased a very funny pantomime about Aladdin. There will be auditions in November 2011 for anyone interested.

GREENWOOD

FAIRIES, LOVERS and MURDER MOST FOUL!

Thornleigh West Public School

Mid-summer Nights Dream
The Tempest
Macbeth
Hamlet
Romeo and Juliet

Carlingford Public School

Mid-summer Nights Dream
The Tempest
Macbeth
Romeo and Juliet

Normanhurst West Public School

Mid-summer Nights Dream [Fairies, Lovers & Singing Donkey]

DEAD POETS DAY

Thornleigh West Public School

Normanhurst West Public School

THE HISTORY. THE MYSTERY. THE THEATRE.

Thornleigh West Public School

Carlingford Public School

Normanhurst West Public School

FROM ZERO TO HERO

All the education programmes combine developing drama skills, while learning about significant people or events from the past. There is also an emphasis on the relevance of this to the student's lives today. The use of theatre terms and processes helps to expand the student's vocabulary and experiences.

The programme 'FROM ZERO TO HERO' aims to teach students that no matter how small we sometimes feel, everyone can make a difference. This is revealed by the lives of the men behind the school sports house names and significant people in the history of your school.

Scripts below are for the use of the students and teachers at the schools listed. If you would like to perform these elsewhere, please contact karYn Johnson at karYn@drawbridgedrama.com.au

Thornleigh West Public School

Ruse - [Script]
Flinders - [Script]
Macquarie - [Script]
Sturt - [Script]

Carlingford Public School

Ruse - [Script]
Mobbs - [Script]
Marsden - [Script]

WAKAKIRRI 2009

Stay tuned - Comming SOON!!!

Wakakirri is a nation wide Story Festival. Go to www.wakakirri.com for more information.

Wakakirri info is also displayed in the TWPS library window.

Heats August, Castle Hill Entertainment Center

Finals September, Sydney Entertainment Centre

WAKAKIRRI 2008

Term 1

Story-dance Auditions = every Friday lunchtime.
March 14th witches. March 28th Scottish women.
April 4th Scottish men. April 11th everyone.
Story-singing auditions = every Wednesday lunch

Term 2

Tuesday lunch = Witches
Tuesday arvo = Lead characters
Wed lunch = Story-singing
Thursday lunch = Scottish men
Friday lunch = Scottish women

WAKAKIRRI - History

Karyn has directed items at Thornleigh West Public School for many years. This usually involves 100 students but in 2007 we had 150 students across 3 items.

[All items are Story-Dance unless otherwise stated]

• 2002 'Useless but Not for Long'
• 2003 'Symphony of Life'
• 2004 'Ice Trap' [NSW State Winners]
• 2005 'Follow the Fence' [NSW Silver medal Finalist]
• 2005 'I'm a Legend' - Story-Telling
• 2006 'The Living Comic Strip'
• 2006 'Our Mob' - Story-Telling
• 2007 'Mutiny on the Bounty'
• 2007 'Bligh's Epic Open-boat Voyage' - Story-Singing
  [NSW State Winners]
• 2007 'Life and Death on Pitcairn's Island' - Story-Telling
  [Australia National Winners]
• 2008 'The Mouse that Roared' - Story-Singing
• 2008 'That Scottish Play'
  [NSW Bronze Medal Finalist]
• 2009 'Australia's Leonardo - The Man on the Money'
  [NSW Silver Medal Finalist]

ON THE DAY

Please ensure that students arrive with plenty of time to prepare for their role, at least 30 minutes. There will be a lot of time spent sitting in the dressing room so, quite games or books are suggested. Please label ALL items of personal clothing and property, even socks.

Characters that require special make-up should arrive at least 1 hour before the curtain time. Make-up is provided but students may do there own at home. Backstage crew should be at the venue 2.5 hours before the first show and must remain until the hall is packed up. There is an interval in all shows and light refreshments will be served for students in the dressing room. Hot drinks will be served for the audience.

As there is only 1 toilet at the The Hut, please ensure students use the facilities at home, or it might be a long interval waiting for 80 people to answer the call of nature.

There is only a 45 minute break between the 3:30 and 6:30 shows on the Saturday. Students have been invited to place a fast food order or they may bring their own food from home. Any one who leaves the venue must be back by 6:15. No costumes are to leave the premises.

Please remind your children:

• To follow all the directions of the backstage crew
• That you will be watching them and cheering for them
• To speak loudly on stage
• To have lots of fun !!!!!!!!!!!!!

Due to my copyright agreement, there is to be no filming or video of the performance. Flash photography will only be permitted during the finale.

Finally, I know that audience members have not had long to rehearse but I expect lots of laughs at the funny bits, sighs in the sad bits and thunderous applauses for all the students hard work.

COSTUMES

End of year showcase

Dresses provided for all female catwalk students. Male students need to provide their own suits.

Drama students must provide their own costumes. This may be a black t-shirt or the white Drawbridge t-shirt or a costume to suit their character.

All students in the finale must wear their white Drawbridge t-shirt with jeans, denim skirt or shorts.

The school library is available for changing if required.

CHRISTMAS DRIVE THRU

Students will have a chance to perform at local Christmas events.

This will include a 'Christmas Drive Thru' where the audience drives or walks from scene to scene as performers act, sing and dance about the Christmas festival.

OUTINGS

To help students develop skills as a performer, learn more about the industry and gain inspiration, i will be organising outings to shows, events and tours.

Here is a shot of some of our gang who went to see an halerious show at "The Famous Spiegeltent", on the forecourt of Sydney Opera House.

PARTY AT THE CUBY

Hey kids, come and have your party at the cuby house. Theme decorations and games will be provided. Dress up as your favourite character from one of the following party themes:

• Pirates
• Fairies
• Superheroes
• Circus
• Underwater
• Supermodels
• Space

Keep watching this space and/ or join our mailing list for more information.

PRIVATE TUTORING

Private tuition is available for anyone needing some one on one time with a coach.

This is also available to non students of Drawbridge Entertainment. It can be a one off session or on going lessons can be negotiated.

We can provide assistance with -

• Auditioning for TV or theatre
• School Drama Classes
• Script learning and character development
• Voice projection or Singing
• Catwalk and Photographic
• Public speaking and Speech Writing

Costs and payments will be worked out on an individual basis.

STUDENT TEACHERS

Allyson

Alex

Alex M

Annabel

Antonia

Bella

Breanna

Callum

Dakota

Daniel

Georgia

Isla

Jay

Jessica

Jonathan

Joshua

Keean

Lisa

Maddison

Malia

Michelle

Monique

Olivia

Patrick

Riley

Sarah

Sean

Sean M

Shannen

Sophie

Tashlyn

 

The director plans and conducts every lesson.

But these lessons would not be possible with out the talented and dedicated team of student teachers.

All teachers have performance experience, leadership training and attend their own age group drama class, each week. These teachers assist with running games, work one on one with the students and act as excellent roll models.

Browse over the teachers name to see their pic and bio.

Name: Allyson Richards

Nickname: Ally

Year: 10

Fave Food: Thai food

Why I Luv Drama: love drama because it's fun and exhilarating and when I'm at drama there are people who know how to make me laugh like im a really really silly person and i love just acting and being confident inside myself.

Best thing bout teaching: It makes me look back into the past when i was there kids age and it brings a new side out of me where im able to be like them and not have to act all proper working with the kids is just that i get to relive the younger stages of childhood.

My Performance Experience: Helen o'gradys drama, midsummers night dream primary school i played cobweb, hamlet primary school i played Ophelia, wakakirri for 4 years in the bush fire one, Shackleton, rabbit proof fence and ginger meggs, from then on after i started creative warts which has now turned into the best drama school that i have been in for now 5 years DRAWBRIDGE drama i have done numerous plays there all with our lovely director Karyn Johnson.

Name: Alex

Nickname: Ali

Year:

Fave Food: Chocolate

Why I Luv Drama: I luv acting.

Best thing bout teaching: I want to pass on how great drama is!!.

My Performance Experience: I've been in Waka for going now 3 years if i make it and I've played in heaps on plays.

Name: Alex

Nickname: Shortie, Ally

Year: 6

Fave Food: Lollies!!!

Why I Luv Drama: You just get to be yourself and have fun!

Best thing bout teaching: I get to help other people.

My Performance Experience: This is my 6th year with Drawbridge Drama. I have performed in Wakakirri. I am in my school's Drama Club. I always participate in Performing Art Actvities. 2 years in a row I have been chosen for the Hill Public Speaking CompThis is my 6th year with Drawbridge Drama. I have performed in Wakakirri. I am in my school's Drama Club. I always participate in Performing Art Actvities. 2 years in a row I have been chosen for the Hill Public Speaking Comp.

Name: Annabel

Nickname: Ally

Year: 8

Fave Food: My mums homemade mango semi-fredo

Why I Luv Drama: I love drama because it gives me a chance to express myself and not look stupid

Best thing bout teaching: The best thing about teaching is definitely the kids. Its great to teach them about something I love.

My Performance Experience: I was in Wakakirri 4 years in a row and I have been doing after-school drama with Mz. J for 4 years as well. Galston Eisteddfod 2009

Name: Breanna

Nickname: Bre, Brezzy

Year: 7

Fave Food: Kidneys

Why I Luv Drama: I get to express myself in different ways

Best thing bout teaching: It is fun to help younger people reach their full potential

My Performance Experience: 10 times singing in Opera House, Wakakirri 4 times, dancing at the hills centre, singing in the hills centre singing in the Sydney town hall, school drama and many more

Name: Daniel

Nickname: Dan

Year: 6 BCJS 20114

Fave Food: Pasta (gnocchi and tortellini) :P

Why I Luv Drama: Because you can forget about your life and just do what you want. No limits no boundaries just yourself.

Best thing bout teaching: Because it is good to teach people who love the same thing as i do and also when you see what they can reach in terms of full penitential is amazing.

My Performance Experience: First in National Wakkikiri (story telling and 2007).First in Galston Eastedford in Junior Choir. Exellince in Drama award 2010 and this is my 5th year of Drama with Mz J and is the best thing iv'e ever done with my life. My Performances i have done include Mz Johnson first ever play (2005) Mz Johnson's 2nd ever play (2006) Skeleton on the Dunny (2007) Midnight (2008) and 7 sided dice (2010) :) :) :) :) :)

Name: Georgia

Nickname: Georgia

Year: 10

Fave Food: Chocolate :)

Why I Luv Drama: I love drama because I can really be myself. I don't have to be embrassed about acting because I know that there are people doing and feeling the same way as I do. In drama I feel confident and happy because I'm around people who also love acting.

Best thing bout teaching: Best about Teaching: The best thing about teaching is seeing younger kids with no confidence or really shy becoming confident in the things they do. Also seeing them  having fun

My Performance Experience: Performance Experience:I have been in Drawbridge Drama for 2 years and this�will be my 3rd.�I have enjoyed every single performance. It has been such a great experience and it has been so much fun! The performances I have done were "Confession Group" and "Midnight". Galston Eisteddfod 2009

Name: Jay

Nickname: na, cause Jay is already quite short

Year: PHHS Yr 8

Fave Food: Everything

Why I Luv Drama: I like being creative.

Best thing bout teaching: Being able to help kids improve their drama skills.

My Performance Experience: Wakakirri 4 years, Drawbridge Drama 2 years, High school drama.

Name: Jessica

Nickname: well.. I sneeze heaps so sneezy

Year: 8

Fave Food: Garlic prawns on chicken schnitzel

Why I Luv Drama: It gives me inner confidence, it puts a real positive tick into my life. It makes my week as I can put a mask on and be anyone.

Best thing bout teaching: You get to teach kids things and then watch them perform it heaps of the kids gain tons more confident through the year and its so nice to see.

My Performance Experience: I have only been in 1 draw bridge show, but I have performed with school and Hornsby Dance. Have done "the wiz" and "encore" with Berowra musical society. I have also done an eisteddfod and plan to write plays and perform for my job.

Name: Jonathan

Nickname: Jono

Year: 9

Fave Food: teriyaki chicken, bento box, and pretty much all Japanese food.

Why I Luv Drama: because it is an outlet where you can be yourself, be creative and have fun, without other people thinking you are weird or telling you what and what not to do

Best thing bout teaching: becoming a role model that others look up to, and creating a fun experience for a bunch of great kids

My Performance Experience: I have been in: night at a castle 2008, end of year showcase 2008, piano northern beaches eisteddfod first place 2008, piano Ryde eisteddfod 2009, midnite 2009, Galston eisteddfod choir 1st place 2009, Galston eisteddfod Shakespeare character 2nd place 2009, school productions "Oliver" and "the Wonder Years", have been a member of the school choir and chamber choir for eight years, and was in the national World Youth Day 2008 choir.

Name: Keean

Nickname: Kee-Kee

Year: 4

Fave Food: Mango

Why I Luv Drama: Because it helps me to be brave and able to express myself in front of a big crowd plus I love singing and dancing.

Best thing bout teaching: I like to be helpful and encourage the students to have fun performing

My Performance Experience: Wakakiri finals 2010, catwalk model end of year performance 2009 and 2010, monopoly musical 2010

Name: Lisa

Nickname: Li li

Year: 10

Fave Food:

Why I Luv Drama: I love drama because it gives me a chance to pretend to be someone else, or something i'm not. it is incredibly fun to put on a persona for the purpose of entertaining others in show.

Best thing bout teaching: Helping someone develop the skills I once had difficultly mastering. Playing games with the students (especially mind games:P) Giving advice on how to perform and see the shy or nervous students use it and create a wonderful scene :)

My Performance Experience: 5th year of Drawbridge Entertainment, 4 years of Wakakirri (story/dance comp), yr 9 and 10 drama at school (including the Drama Festival), backstage helper and sub-organiser for some school events (not really performance, but helpful all the same)

Name: Maddison

Nickname: Maddi

Year: 6

Fave Food: Home made pizza from my mum

Why I Luv Drama: you get to perform and do really cool stuff in front of friends and family

Best thing bout teaching: you get to teach kids about drama, do it with them and watch them perform on stage and do really awesome plays

My Performance Experience: I have done drama for 4 years . Also this will be my 4th year in Wakakirri and I LOVE IT!

Name: Michelle

Nickname: Shell and Mich

Year:

Fave Food: Chicken and Veal Parmigiana, Spaghetti Bolognese, Nachos, Satay Chicken, Lamb Chops, Hot Chips with Gravy or Vinegar. Veal and Chicken Schnitzel, Tacos, Pesto Pasta, Mangos, Green Grapes, Watermellon, Blueberries, Dim Sims (from Victoria)

Why I Luv Drama: I get to express myself and show people what kind of person I am... a very nice one!!!! It's also a fantastic place to meet new friends. I've made a bunch of really awesome friends through Drawbridge which makes Drama even more fun.

Best thing bout teaching: Helping someone develop the skills I once had difficultly mastering. Playing games with the students (especially mind games:P) Giving advice on how to perform and see the shy or nervous students use it and create a wonderful scene :)

My Performance Experience: Seeing some of the shyer students really come out of there shells and develop better confidence in themselves as the year progresses.

Name: Sarah Jane

Nickname: My fave's are Sass and Sox

Year: 8

Fave Food: ummmmm...Italian food???

Why I Luv Drama: Because when I act, I can leave everything behind and forget who I am and become a whole new person with a whole new life and that is an incredible feeling, to know that I have the ability to become someone else. And because it's FUN!!!!!!!!!

Best thing bout teaching: interacting with the other kids and getting to know them. I like helping them with their drama and just hanging with them, it's so fun. I also like the learning experience.

My Performance Experience: 4 years of drama with Drawbridge; 3 years with Helen O'Grady, 1 church play; 5 years of catwalk with Drawbridge, 1 year of Australian youth choir; Galston Eisteddfod 2009

Name: Riley

Nickname: Riles

Year: 9

Fave Food: Olives (Sicilian especially) and oysters!!

Why I Luv Drama: Drama is a wonderful thing. It gives people the power to speak and be heard through the art of acting and it allows us to step away from who we are and become someone else. I love drama because it is an exploration into a vast array of magical things and because I can achieve with it.

Best thing bout teaching: I haven't done a whole lot of "teaching" teaching, but I think that we all teach just by being ourselves whilst we act. The best thing about teaching like that is that I can inspire and educate others by doing what I love, and the best thing about "teaching" teaching is that I can have responsibility and the knowledge that what I do will impact others.

My Performance Experience: I have been in four television commercials, a short film, the Galston Eisteddfod (Second Place), Wakakirri for four years and as a main in three of the performances, 'The Wizard of Oz' at Pennant Hills High School (come and watch!), Midnite in 2009 Drawbridge play of 'Midnite', 5 years at Drawbridge, 2 years at Sydney Talent Company Acting Groups, 7 years at STC, in front of the mirror, family and friends!

Name: Sean

Nickname: Sheep

Year: 6

Fave Food: Toblerone

Why I Luv Drama: Drama is fun, entertaining, happy/excited to perform in front of others

Best thing bout teaching: Educating younger students

My Performance Experience: Wakakirri 2007 National winner: Story Telling, Wakakirri 2009 2nd place State finals, Story dance, Public speaking district finals, 2008; PS public speaking finals, 2009; Galston

Name: Shannen

Nickname: Shamwow

Year: 11

Fave Food: my mums omlettes.

Why I Luv Drama: I love drama because it is an amazing and unique way to connect with other people. Everyone can watch, perform and enjoy drama.

Best thing bout teaching: The best thing about teaching is sharing knowledge, skills and experiences with other performers.

My Performance Experience: I have been doing drama in and out of school since kindergarten and have been with Karyn and Drawbridge for the last 5 years. In that time have done everything from contemporary plays to Shakespeare to using mime and movement and have even had a go at writing. I'm looking forward to challenges that Youth Theatre and HSC drama will bring in the next year :).

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SPECIALIST TEACHERS

Gillian

Jemimah

Rachael

Chris

Alana

Dennis

Grace

Kris

New in 2010 is the Drawbridge Youth Theatre.

I am thrilled to welcome two very passionate and talented young women to my teaching team. Both have many years experience working in the theatre and with children and youth. While I will still conduct all lessons, Jemimah and Gillian will be directing the class performances and bringing their own unique style to class each week.

Also this year, we will have some specialist teachers. Singing teachers, dance teachers, personal development teachers and make-up artists.

Browse over the teachers name to see their pic and bio.

Name: Jemimah

Bio: Jemimah began working with Karyn in 2007. She attended a drama school much like Drawbridge when she was in high school and particularly enjoyed “studio company” which was the equivalent of Drawbridge’s Youth Theatre.

She completed a Theatre - Performance and Practice certificate at the Eora centre for Performing and Creative Arts and is now undertaking a double Bachelors degree in Dramatic Arts and Theology at The Wesley Institute, with a view to study Clinical Psychology and eventually work in Drama Therapy.

Jemimah had the privilege of working with the Young People’s Theatre Program with Davis Musical Theatre Company, California in 2004-2005 and just loves the energy and vitality that young people bring to the stage. She can’t wait to discover what the future holds for Drawbridge Entertainment and particulalrly Youth Theatre.

Name: Gillian

Bio: Gillian is a graduate of the Actors College of Theatre of Television (ACTT) and is currently studying Drama and English teaching at Macquarie University.

She has been performing since primary school and credits the Marion Street Theatre as the place she first fell in love with the stage.

Gillian has been involved in both professional and amateur theatre, the most recent a production of 'None The Wiser' where she played Agnes at the Roxbury in Glebe as well as appearing as Susie from Tennessee Williams' 'A Period of Adjustment' at the Bondi Pavilion.

During her time as a student at ACTT, she played Hamlet, Calphurnia from William Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar', Sonya from Chekhov's; 'Uncle Vanya', Becky Sharp in the stage adaption of 'Vanity Fair' as well as Princess in Tennessee Williams' 'Sweet Bird of Youth'. At ACTT Gillian also developed self-devised pieces that involved acrobatics, dance and singing.

Gillian has done some modelling, television work as well as working with children in holiday theatre camps. Gillian is very excited to be a part of Drawbridge Entertainment in 2010.

Name: Grace

Bio:Grace graduated from The McDonald College of Performing Arts in 2007, with a major in Drama and Theatre, however did study some dance, music, television acting.

Grace also worked with the Sydney Youth Musical Theatre where her passion for theatre emerged.

She has performed on various stages all over Sydney, from the Black Box Theatre, to the Zenith Theatre, to the NIDA Theatre, however her most memorable performances were being a part of the National Shakespeare Festivals.

Grace has always had a love of theatre and is excited to be involved in Drawbridge Entertainment!

Name: Rachael

Bio: Rachael has been dancing for 14 years in the styles of ballet, jazz and tap.

She currently teaches jazz and ballet. She has extensive performing experience at the McDonalds Performing Arts, State Dance Festival, Met North, and the School Spectacular.

A regular teacher at a local dance school, she brings youth, enthusiasm and creativity to all her classes.

Name: Chris Dare

Bio: Having worked on stage and in front of the camera, Chris has now made the move to work as director and cameraman.

He has had his own company for 4 years and will be able to weave his magic into the adverts, soap opera scenes and documentaries that we practice in class.

Name: Alanna Yeates

Bio: An experienced dancer and teacher, who has taught and performed at various venues around NSW. Currently studying her HSC.

Alanna brings youth, passion and creativity to all her classes.

Name: Dennis Clare

Bio: An amazing performing artist, with a Bio too long to mention.

Dennis is a perfectionist in his art,and has performed around Australia and internationally.

He regularly tours schools and performs at corporate events. Do not miss this chance to meet and work with him.

Name: Kris O'Ryan

Kris started off at a young age in the performing arts, with ties to the national youth choir, as well as Wakakirri. From there he went to Kings Private School for boys, where his love for theatre and the performing arts grew tenfold. Kris was involved with many musicals and drama productions whilst at school and uses those experiences as a foundation base. Kris finished school in 2006 and was nominated for ON STAGE for his group performance 'The Solution'.

Kris is currently studying a double major of media and theatre performance at UNSW, being involved with numerous dance and performance pieces in his 3 years at university. Kris also has taken part in NIDA projects that partner with the 50th anniversary of UNSW. Kris has been involved with many musicals as an actor, singer and dancer, including lead roles in the Mikado, Le Miserable and My fair Lady. He also has acted as an outside teacher for HSC performances for year 12 students at kings, helping where needed.

Kris has done some modeling work as well as involving himself as an extra on television. He is honored to be a part of Drawbridge Theatre for 2011.

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