Lily Jin
To encourage students’ exposure to Chinese drama, YK Pao School successfully produced its first ever Chinese musical, “In Search of Sound” on May 14th and 15th at the Malan Flower Theatre. Organizer Ms. Lily Jin shares her experience of making of this wonderful musical.
The first step is always the most difficult. Choosing the right director and material is no small challenge. Outstanding directors in the realm of children’s musical dramas are difficult to find in the mainland. Moreover, directors specializing in children’s theater are in short supply.After many recommendations, we were honored that director Zhang Chenting, children’s theater specialist from the Shanghai Theater Academy, accepted our invitation. After much discussion, we decided to adapt Ms.Zhang’s latest movie, “In Search of Sound,” into a musical drama.
Students rehearsed twice per week,with two hours per session, allowing them time to settle into their roles as well as adapt to each other and the director. Despite intense rehearsals,more than 95% of our students persevered, in spite of exhaustion,continued demands from the director,or having to wait on stage without a single line to speak. When asked if they felt like giving up, they would always boldly reply: “Never!” When I heard this, I truly felt we were doing something special and worthwhile.
How passionate are our students for theatre? Coming to audition despite illness, arriving home late after rehearsals and then doing homework until 12am, staying in hotels nearby the school to accommodate both the rehearsal schedule as well as academic commitments, and persevering through both praise and criticism. That is passion, and true passion requires perseverance. To our students: the entire production crew is so proud of you all, and we are so honored to have taken this journey with you.
