From January 15 to 18, 2025, the YCYW Drama Festival was successfully held at YWIES Tongxiang in collaboration with the International Schools Theatre Association (ISTA). The event brought together talented students from YCIS Hong Kong, YCIS Shanghai Pudong, YCIS Shanghai Puxi, YWIES Shanghai Lingang, YWIES Shanghai Gubei, YCIS Beijing, YWIES Beijing Yizhuang, YCIS Qingdao, YCIS Chongqing, and YWIES Tongxiang. Students from six regions and ten campuses engaged in face-to-face exchanges with artists, showcasing their talent and passion for drama.

The Drama Festival, themed "Brave New World" featured a diverse range of activities, including two Musical Theatre Workshops, a Children's Theatre Workshop, a Physical Theatre Workshop, and a Film Workshop. The event aimed to inspire students' passion and creativity, helping them express themselves innovatively in a changing society. 

Students from these five workshops collaborated closely, using their deep understanding of "Brave New World" to create and present a unique theatrical piece.

Dr Man Cheung, Festival Host and teacher at YWIES Tongxiang, stated that the theme "Brave New World" reflects the many challenges of our times. Young people face rapid advancements in AI and a constantly changing global environment. To tackle these challenges, they need the courage to lead positive change.

The Drama Festival offered students a unique, immersive experience designed to build their confidence, teamwork skills, and global perspective through a variety of engaging activities.

During the three-day event, YWIES Tongxiang students collaborated with peers from other YCYW campuses, engaging creatively and becoming active learners. They made new friends from diverse backgrounds, gaining valuable insights. 

Through high-quality performances, students improved interpersonal and communication skills, faced challenges, and enhanced English proficiency. Workshops developed unique skills like singing and dancing in musical theatre, filming techniques, and physical expression. Collaborating with international artists offered world-class artistic experiences in an atmosphere of excellence.

We believe these experiences will not only enhance their artistic skills but also develop resilience, empathy, and confidence, qualities that will continue to support them beyond the stage.

"Aligning with Culture and Arts" has always been a core mission of YCYW. Let us inspire our children to dream boldly, explore fearlessly, and express themselves fully through the arts.