Enhancing Creative Expression: ISP Fund Expands Music Production and Theatre Tech Programmes

Have you heard about the exciting new upgrades transforming the ISP Theatre and sparking creativity across campus? Thanks to the ISP Fund and the expertise of Theatre Manager Josh Stewart, newly acquired technical and musical equipment is opening up fresh learning avenues for students to express themselves in theatre arts and beyond! 

 

These recently purchased tools allow programmes and new initiatives with students to thrive, providing diverse, hands-on opportunities for students to explore unique forms of expression and new possibilities that haven’t been available before. Through initiatives like the Upper School Tech Team After-school Activities (ASA), Josh Stewart has pioneered ways for students to develop technical skills in real-time settings, such as managing lights, sound, and tech for TEDx, assemblies, and other major school events. 

“Not many people really understand what happens behind the scenes of the theatre - it’s very specialised work.  I'm passionate about passing these skills and habits on to the students I work with, like those on the tech team. It’s not only about mastering the technical aspects - rigging lights and managing sound - but also about teaching important life skills like communicating effectively, showing up on time, and taking ownership of the equipment and the process." 

Josh Stewart, Theatre Manager
 

With new, high-quality microphones, the sound capabilities of ISP's Main Theatre have been significantly enhanced. These upgrades have improved both the clarity and range of sound, making performances and presentations more dynamic and professional. Both our audience and performers are now experiencing a more immersive, real-world sound environment, and our students are benefiting, both from the stage and the tech booth!

“My goal for the students is to see the theatre as their theatre – I want them to feel proud of the space they’re creating and managing. Ideally, I aim to be “invisible” in this process, so they feel empowered to set up and run productions independently. For some of these students, this work is their passion, and I want them to have the skills and confidence post ISP to do what they love in the world and take control of their own path.”

Josh Stewart, Theatre Manager

Also, a new After-school Activities offering, the Electronic Music class, introduces students across all school sections to music production and composition. ES students start with foundational skills on GarageBand using iPads, while MS students in the ASA initiative advance to more sophisticated techniques, allowing them to transition to Ableton, a professional live engineering software purchased through the ISP Fund. This progression builds on their creativity and technical skills, equipping them with a deeper understanding of music production.

“In the Electronic Music ASA, I give students a lot of space and freedom to explore and experiment with music in a relaxed setting.  I give them the voice to try things out and pursue their own style of music.”

Josh Stewart, Theatre Manager

With the new Ableton software, along with portable speakers, musical performances now extend beyond the Main Theatre, bringing open mic nights, concerts, and ‘Kavarna’ gatherings to different campus spaces. This expansion fosters a stronger sense of community, offering students and staff even more opportunities to come together, share creativity, and celebrate the arts.
 

“Our Main Theatre is a beautiful space, but it can sometimes feel intimidating for young artists. The ability to hold performances, pop-ups, and spontaneous gatherings in other areas on campus allows students to feel more at ease sharing their work. The new equipment we have received from the ISP Fund makes this more possible.”

Josh Stewart, Theatre Manager

These investments in equipment and programming empower ISP students not only to enjoy new ways to express themselves but to build skills that will serve them in their future endeavours. Through music, theatre, and performance, ISP is fostering a culture of creative exploration, collaboration, and confidence.
 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN 2023/24

Your generosity and involvement in the life of ISP make us the great school that we are today. 

Please consider making a gift to ISP Fund in 2024/25.