Wow! What an Inaugural Year for Nord Anglia International School's Creative Arts Department

Setting the Stage: September Busking Sessions

Our Creative Arts Department kicked off the year with a bang. Vibrant busking sessions began in September, with students performing a heartwarming rendition of 'A Million Dreams.' These Friday morning sessions quickly became a cherished part of our school community. Marie Connolly, Director of Creative Arts, recalls, "These sessions set the bar high for the year and brought joy and music to everyone in our main atrium."

Shining on the Big Stage: Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards

Our students had the thrilling opportunity to be part of the live TV recording of the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards at Etihad Arena. "Our students not only shone on stage but also had a blast dancing in the famous 'slime pit!' It was an unforgettable experience that showcased their versatility and enthusiasm," says Marie.

Uniting for a Cause: October Performances

October was a month of unity and support. The Primary and Secondary choirs performed a beautiful medley of 'The Climb' for Pinktober. This was followed by spirited monster mash dancing and Ghostbuster moves during our lively Autumn Festival. Marie reflects, "The whole school then squeezed into the auditorium for a powerful rendition of 'Together We Stand' in support of World Children’s Day, showcasing our collective strength and harmony."

Winter Concerts: A Season of Dedication

The Winter Concerts were a testament to our students' hard work and dedication. Each class performed with passion and precision on our fabulous auditorium stage. "Our partnership with IMIG and Juilliard allowed us to showcase our gifted and talented instrumentalists, adding an extra layer of brilliance to the concerts," Marie notes.

Global Competitions: Young Musicians Shine

As the new year began, ten of our students entered the Nord Anglia Global Campus Young Musician of the Year competition. "Their talent and determination were truly inspiring as they competed against peers from our global community of Nord Anglia Schools," says Marie.

A Musical Highlight: Silk Road Imagination Concert

A true highlight of the year was hosting the Chinese Philharmonic Youth Orchestra for the Silk Road Imagination concert. Our NAS Abu Dhabi choirs performed alongside this prestigious orchestra. "The concert featured an incredible repertoire and created magical moments we will cherish forever," Marie shares.

Spring Competitions: Abu Dhabi and Beyond

Spring brought more excitement as our talented musicians shone at the Abu Dhabi Young Musician of the Year Competition, showcasing the best talent from across the UAE. In May, our secondary students participated in the Nord Anglia Middle East Performing Arts Festival in NAS Dubai. Marie recalls, "This thrilling trip resulted in an outstanding showcase and offered our students the opportunity to work with some of the best professionals, teachers, and peers from our NAE sister schools across the Gulf."

Transforming the School: 'The Little Mermaid' Production

Our school was recently transformed by the enchanting tale of 'The Little Mermaid Jr.' The talent displayed by our cast in singing, dancing, and acting was truly remarkable. "Directing this exciting show will always be a special memory for me. It was brought to life by our fabulous students' talent and the immense help from the wider staff body," says Marie.

Celebrating the Year: Final Busking Sessions

Our last busking sessions of the year featured some of our youngest instrumentalists, vocalists, ballet troupes and Musical Theatre performers - and they were a joy to see.

A Year of Support: Thanks to Our Parents

None of these wonderful events would be possible without the dedicated support of our parents. "Thank you for allowing us to bring these events to your stage and for being such an excellent audience," says Marie.

As we look forward to the next year, we are excited to welcome even more talented students into our vibrant community and to continue working with the incredible talents we have already uncovered.

Here’s to a fantastic first year of Creative arts at NAS Abu Dhabi.