IGS ArtsFest is an annual interhouse performing arts festival, but that’s not the be all and end all. A new Principal. A holistic view of student wellbeing. A hunger for drama. These paved the way for what would become a School tradition: ArtsFest.
2001: The atmosphere at IGS was electric. The School sent Principal David Wright (1994-2001) off with The Right Way Home, a performing arts piece that paid homage to his many facets. Balancing Act was fresh in everyone’s minds as an immersive theatrical piece that had performers use the entire school as a stage. So, when incumbent Principal Kerrie Murphy (2001-2010) asked what would best enhance the student experience, the answer was obvious.
Students, regardless of whether they studied Drama were enticed into dreaming, writing, rehearsing, and performing. Parents and guardians of students have always helped with set constructions, costumes and the transformation of spaces. This strengthened an already tight-knit community. Given the nature of past collaborative works, ArtsFest as an interactive, immersive experience was a natural culmination.
From the ashes of the pandemic years, ArtsFest rises, stronger than ever. This year includes a participant of the first-ever ArtsFest as a guest judge, Lily Trapaga Tulloch (Class of 03). She is featured below participating in the inaugural 2002 ArtsFest performance which Kuyal won.
The Australian Heritage Festival runs from April 18 to May 10. During this time, Chronicles will reflect on some of the School’s proud traditions and past treasures.
Thank you to Rita Morabito and Anthony Dennehy for contributing to this issue, and Alexandra Peters for inviting me to her Learning Journeys II interviews with IGS foundation staff.
IGS Archives is also collecting ArtsFest-related memorabilia, such as photographs, videos, and costumes, especially from the first few years (2002-2005). Should you wish to contribute, please contact Phoebe Chin at archives@igssyd.nsw.edu.au.
About the Australian Heritage Festival
The Australian Heritage Festival, spearheaded by the National Trust, is a time period dedicated to highlighting the unique traditions, histories, and experiences of a community. In the spirit of this year’s theme of Connections, IGS Archives will strengthen ties to our unique heritage through stories and objects as we carry them forward into the future.
Sources:
Image provided by Rita Morabito.
International Grammar School 2002, 2002 International Grammar School Magazine, International Grammar School, Sydney.
International Grammar School 2014, Learning Journeys: 30 Years of International Grammar School 1984-2014, International Grammar School, Sydney.