TK's very first musical, Peter Pan Jr. was a success. Watch the full length video of our talented performers here.

TK's Peter Pan Jr. from CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL on Vimeo.

It all began with a phone call from my mother who had some exciting news for me. I was just finishing my first year of university at Smith College in the U.S. and would soon be returning to Singapore for the school break. I planned on volunteering at the Genesis School for Special Education, beginning in mid-June, but first I wanted to take a break, relax and get caught up on my favourite Netflix shows.

When I heard my mother’s news, I tossed my plan to relax out the window for the opportunity to get involved in TK’s production of Peter Pan Jr.

I attended secondary school at CIS' Lakeside campus for four years, but I had never met the TK arts team before so I was a bit nervous about whether I would fit in. But Ms L and Ms Ho (Sierra Laderoute and Caroline Ho) welcomed me with open arms. It was just like coming home.

By the time I arrived, rehearsals were in full swing. Students from grades 4 to 6 were working hard to memorise their lines, excitedly trying on their costumes for the first time. The fairies were especially thrilled about the sparkling sequined skirts they got to wear! Now came the hard part - putting all the “pieces” together. That’s where Ms L and Ms Ho’s experience and endless patience came in. The two of them worked day and night to ‘block’ the scenes (plan exactly where everybody was supposed to be and when for the best dramatic effect) and rehearse with our wonderful cast.

My job, along with helping out at rehearsals, was to manage the ‘backstage’ portion of Peter Pan Jr. on show night - making sure all the props were where they should be, that scenes changed at the right time, and that costume changes went smoothly. I was a bit nervous at first, there seemed like so much to do, but the students helped me make sure everything went off without a hitch.

Some of my favourite memories are of everybody piling into the small backstage area just out of view of the audience, trying not to laugh at the tight fit while maneuvering all the props into the hands of whoever could most easily escape the crowd for the next scene change!

I was really impressed by the dedication of TK staff and students who worked tirelessly until the last minute to put together such a spectacular show, as well as the courage and leadership our young performers showed when they performed on show night. There was no stage-fright in sight for these pirates, fairies, lost-boys, and indians, just excited energy and a dedication to get the job done well - all the while having the time of their lives - and I was so proud at the end of the night. By the time the show finished, the audience was on its feet, cheering for the amazingly talented young performers.

When all was said and done they did a great job and had an even better time doing it! I was very fortunate to be able to work alongside such talented students and staff who made Peter Pan Jr. the success that it was.

Many of these students are moving to secondary school at Lakeside in August. I know they will be warmly welcomed, as I was when I first arrived. Their journey at CIS will allow them to see the world through different eyes. Being part of the CIS community taught me to be more open minded and caring, and to think critically and creatively.

Being part of the Peter Pan Jr. production reminded me that I will always be a member of this wonderful community. Thanks for these great memories TK!