The 2024 New York Theater Trip! Plays, Workshops and More!
The New York 2024 Theater Trip was characterized by exciting shows, collaborative workshops, and personal growth.
Hosted by the International Schools Theatre Association at Ripley Grier Studios, students participated from October 16th to October 19th.
As part of the trip students had the opportunity to see four Broadway productions including Stereophonic, Water For Elephants, The Outsiders and Suffs.
Photo Courtesy of Ms. Ollagnon
Erik Briggs 26’ shares “The trip is a very busy but fun trip where you learn about many different aspects of theater as well as watch several Broadway performances.”
In addition to the Broadway performance, students participated in acting workshops with other IB students. DP Theatre Director Ms. Ollagnon shares “Newman students worked with around 100 other IB DP theatre students from schools all over the world. They work in ensemble groups with theatre professionals exploring all different aspects of theatre that pertain to the IB DP theatre curriculum. For example, this year students worked with a Kyogen master learning a bit about that technique.”
Students especially enjoyed learning about this technique, as they shared some highlights of what they learned. Mia Brillantes 26’ shares “One of the most interesting things I learned about was the Japanese theater tradition of Kyogen.”
Erik 26’ also shares that “I learned many different ways to look at theater through the workshops. The one that stuck with me the most was learning about Japanese theater and learning a dance.”
Additionally, as part of the workshop students worked with two members of the Bill T. Jones company to explore movement based theater.
These workshops were also an amazing way for students to meet others with the same passions. Mia 26’ tells us she enjoyed “making friends from across the world who are also interested in theater.”
Not only is it an educational trip, but the New York Theater Trip allows students to grow personally and further develop their interests. Ms. Ollagnon shares “It is an opportunity for students to meet many new people who share the passion and curiosity that they do and deepen their learning in a fully experiential way. It is a time to take risks and push one's self outside their comfort zone.”
Students highly recommend others to take this trip as Mia 26’ shares it was “An inspirational opportunity to see four Broadway shows, participate in IB theater workshops, and experience NYC. I got to know some of my friends from Newman better and tested my navigational skills (GPS quit on us).”
Erik 26’ agrees and says “I would absolutely recommend this trip. It is truly an incredible opportunity to gain more insight into theater, see some plays, and hang out with friends.”
It was an enriching experience and students felt inspired to pursue their creative interests and passions. Ms. Ollagnon shares from the Broadway productions seen on the trip, “The four we saw this year were all phenomenal - we were really spoiled with amazing, creative, moving performances and stories.”
