Hazel Low joined the Speech and Drama Arts (SDA) programme in October 2021. She was just nine then. Hazel has a great work ethic and exhibits a positive outlook in life.
Big or small, she portrayed every role with the same enthusiasm and earnestness. Each production she undertook came with its own set of challenges she had to overcome. For example, she initially found memorising lines difficult. Determined not to let that deter her, she practised her lines constantly.
Over the last two years, she has grown in confidence and eloquence. Last year, Hazel was one of the recipients of the SDA Outstanding Performer Award. We spoke to Hazel in person, and she has kindly shared her experience of being with the Speech and Drama Arts programme with us.
- When you first started the SDA programme, what were some things you found hard to do?
I did find several things difficult. Firstly, I found it hard to remember my lines. Whenever there are performances, there will always be lines to remember.
Next, I found coming up with the actions to portray the characters challenging.
- How did you overcome those challenges?
I overcame those challenges by practising and constantly reading and reviewing the scripts. It’s kind of like spelling. I would say the lines many times and then try to recite them without looking at the script.
- What are some things you like about drama?
I like how you can be yourself in a drama class. Sometimes people do not accept who you are, so you cannot be yourself. Here you can. Also, I really love the drama activities as they are quite fun. It’s a great thing that I come here.
- What was it like playing your first lead role as Humpty Dumpty in last term’s performance?
It was cool and fun. It was also somewhat weird because the character was supposed to be on a high wall, but I wasn’t that high up. When the queen said, “Hey come down!” she could have dragged me down from the supposed wall. Despite Humpty Dumpty being a lead role, I didn’t find it exceptionally challenging. I still enjoyed it.
- Do you think you have changed by acting and learning about these stories?
I think I changed a lot since I was in Primary 3. In the past, I was shy and hardly talked. Every time I attended this class, my self-esteem increased, and I became more vocal.
- Other than drama, what are your other interests?
My other interest would be swimming, although I do not have much time to swim as much now. My schedule is so packed, and I cannot find time to go swimming.
- Would you mind sharing with us your aspirations or dreams?
I don’t have a fixed dream, as it keeps changing. However, right now, I would like to be a head bartender. I looked it up, and I really like the job scope.
- Some students want to join our drama class but might have worries about their reading and writing skills. Could you give them some words of encouragement?
When you come for drama lessons, you actually improve your speaking, pronunciation and reading skills. When you act, you need to speak clearly. Therefore, if you are afraid to attend our drama class because you are bad at reading and writing, you should not be. You should just come!
The Speech & Drama Arts programme is being offered in Bedok and Bishan Learning Centres. To find out more about our Speech and Drama Programme, Click Here!
By Corinne Ang
Senior Educational Therapist
RETA Fellow
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