On Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 October, St George’s International School in Luxembourg-Hamm hosted its first school performance of the year.

Year 4, 5 and 6 students were amazing with the performance of ‘The Spirit of Africa’; the show fully showcased the remarkable lighting effects alongside the impressive acoustics of the brand new auditorium. ‘The Spirit of Africa’ was written by St George’s Music teacher, Ms Bydder, who also composed many of the songs.

The play takes place in an African village that is suffering from a drought. A little schoolchild Jojo believes she can ask a magical creature in the jungle to help with their problems which leads to consequences she could not possibly have foreseen! ‘The Spirit of Africa’ is a charming story that touches upon many ethical and environmental factors, whilst consolidating many topics that the students have learnt in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) such as: Africa, the environment, ‘What A wonderful World we live in’ and rain. 

‘This year we wanted to include as many children as possible in a performance to showcase our fantastic new auditorium. It has been an epic journey, involving many great people along the way!’ explained Ms Claire Nuttall (Primary Head Teacher).

Both students and staff from the St George’s Art Department worked extremely hard to create beautiful African landscapes and outstanding costumes. The students also had the privilege of working with talented artists for this production. Jamie Birkett, a professional choreographer from London came to teach the students innovative dance routines and Peter Francis, a former STOMP performer, devised dance workshops with the students which also featured in the performance.

An example of originality and talent within the play was the simulation of rain, the students skilfully snapping fingers, rubbing hands together, slapping thighs and tapping feet to convey the sound of welcome rain after drought.

Students and staff received wonderful welcome response from their audience who were all encouraged to sing and dance along with the cast to the song ‘African Sunset’. The new auditorium was built for events like these, to showcase student talent at St George’s for the benefit of supportive friends, family and the wider community.