Today myself and many others bonded through the fun and playful activities in Drama Class. The class split up into five groups, and each group was told to make a skit relating to the Qing Dynasty. Every skit needed a conflict and every group member needed a role pertaining to the predicament. We all had a great time bonding and coming up with a script. I chose the role of guardian of the princess. I defeat my friend, or enemy in this case, Matt, in a battle during our skit while trying to protect the princess from falling to her death. I have never before been so active in a class activity and it was just such a great time to see everyone getting involved and laughing. Even Colin Donovan, who was suffering from hurting his ankle, was having the time of his life. In his script he chose to be a bird because he had crutches so he was able to flap them around in the background.
What I felt was the highlight of the day though was our Welcoming Dinner. The kids from the school put on a skit of their own. It was very funny and we all enjoyed the many jokes they told. Also CeCe and her classmate performed a dance for us. I was amazed at the combination of some American style dancing and traditional Chinese dancing. To finish it off my host sister, Phoebe, performed a song which translated to english as "Long Time, No See". It was a very beautiful song and received a great round of applause at the end.
This day was very special because I made new friends and bonded with some of the other students from the school I never met before. I cannot wait to go back tomorrow and I am so excited for our group to experience the interesting life style here in Shanghai
Wow, what a fun day, and what a great description of such by Peter Ridder! What fun acting is, both being and watching the actors...and so much we can learn about life in that ancient activity. Also the bonding, rapid bonding, is certainly reminiscent of what happens on a well led retreat. So happy for you young students! :)
Reply
Vincenzo
4/9/2014 12:04:30 am
Ah Grasshopper,
I am too thrilled for you getting to take such a wondrous journey with such great (& now life-long pals).
Loving your post and anything you care to share. Your perspectives are wise from one so young.
Enjoy, savor it all, too cool for words!
Reply
Mom
4/9/2014 12:27:55 am
Looks like Shanghai is bringing out the performers in all of you. Wonder if you will be called to Theatre 308 when you return to the U.S. Love the daily blogs - so nice to see the connections all of you are making during this incredible journey.
Reply
Ms. Backus
4/9/2014 08:43:14 am
Peter, I was smiling from ear to ear while I read your post. I love your description of the performance, and find all of your roles so perfect. It is great to know you are making such strong connections and friendships. I hope you continue to enjoy every moment of the exchange.
Reply
Erika
4/10/2014 02:03:15 am
Sounds like so much fun guys!!! :)
Reply
Leave a Reply.
China Exchange 2013-2014
4 Boys, 9 girls, and two teachers traveling across the world for a cultural immersion experience of a lifetime!