An open day for parents and relatives was held last week at the Malta Drama Centre, bringing to a close the first term for some 100 junior students. Parents and relatives were invited to follow work in progress as well as approaches to the various styles employed by four different tutors.

“The Malta Drama Centre aims at offering broad and thorough training in all aspects of the theatre. It also offers an opportunity for self-development and creative thinking. Therefore, fantasy play is an essential ingredient in the training of children and from time to time parents are encouraged to attend practical sessions,” said a spokesperson for the centre.

The aim of an open day is to let parents and relatives understand what goes on during a typical session. The session engages students in preparatory techniques for the multiple aspects of drama. A workshop can include warm-up games, improvisation, movement and voice exercises. Parents are also encouraged to participate in games and improvisation together with their children. Eventually, this training will lead students to studio productions if students decide to continue their courses at the Centre.

“Drama is an ideal way how to stimulate children, how to teach them important communication skills and above all, how to introduce them to thinking critically, as an asset they will need as they face life in the future. In fact, one of the main ideals at the Malta Drama Centre is to regard drama as a rehearsal for life,” explained Mario Azzopardi, Head of the Centre.