From November 13 to November 17, Senior School drama students embarked on an unforgettable, immersive trip to New York City, diving deep into the heart of Broadway and the city’s rich cultural history. This exciting excursion provided them with hands-on exposure to world-class theatre, iconic landmarks, and interactive artistic experiences.
One of the highlights of the trip was a special visit to Radio City Music Hall for the renowned Rockette Spectacular. Originally planning to visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the students cast a vote, and the overwhelming majority chose to see the Rockettes’ legendary performance. The day began with a stroll through Times Square en route to the Museum of Broadway, where students explored the fascinating history behind some of Broadway's most iconic musicals and plays. As they delved into the behind-the-scenes effort involved in bringing these productions to life, many students were struck by the parallels between their classroom lessons and the professional theatre world.
Their journey continued with a visit to High Line Park, a scenic urban walkway that offered breathtaking views of the city’s architecture. A stop at the lively Chelsea Market provided the perfect opportunity for students to enjoy lunch, explore unique shops, and savor the diverse array of delicious food offerings alongside their peers.
Next, the group ventured into Greenwich Village, a neighborhood known for its deep-rooted history in the arts. Here, students took in the cultural significance of landmarks like the Stonewall Inn, a historic site for LGBTQ+ rights. Taking on the role of tour guide, Grade 11 student Michael C. treated the group to a fun overview of pop culture, pointing out Taylor Swift’s former residence and Electric Lady Studios, a famous recording hub for legendary musicians. The tour ended with a visit to Washington Square Park, where students met up with HTS Integrated Arts Prefects and alumni, Katie and Michael, who shared their own experiences in the arts.
A highlight of the trip was the students’ visit to the Color Factory, an immersive art exhibit offering a unique and playful way to engage with art. This interactive space invited students to dance, play, jump into a bubble pit, and capture countless photos, creating memories filled with energy and creativity.
Their cultural exploration continued in Little Italy, where students admired the old architecture and vibrant shops, indulging in a delicious Italian dinner before topping off the meal with ice cream. Following dinner, they attended their first Broadway show of the trip: Shucked. The musical had the students in fits of laughter with its clever jokes and spectacular lighting, leaving them eager for the three remaining shows on their itinerary.
The night ended on a quintessential New York note: with a slice of pizza before heading back to the hotel to rest and reflect on an incredible day. The drama students left New York inspired and energized, having experienced firsthand the art and energy of one of the world’s greatest theatre cities.
This immersive trip provided them with invaluable insights into the world of theatre, an experience that will undoubtedly fuel their passion for the performing arts for years to come.