While Shakespeare wrote that “all the world’s a stage,” the students of Metchosin’s Pearson College UWC are bringing all the world’s culture to the McPherson Playhouse stage with the school’s annual showcase, appropriately titled One World.
On March 15 and 16, a display of song, dance, and the United World Colleges mission come together through the students that arrive to study here from all over the globe.
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Students often dress in their traditional wear during performances such as the Ukrainian Dance, or the South African Gumboot Dance – a recurring favourite from the event. On top of their studies toward a two-year International Baccalaureate diploma, students can choose or create their own dance choreography, and stories to perform for the showcase.
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One World is a truly collaborative event as every student from the college, numbering roughly 200, are involved in the production. Besides storytelling, working the technical side, or helping behind the curtain, Pearson students and staff guide visitors through their visual exposition of the UWC, on exhibit in the McPherson lobby. One World musical director Paul Faber states on Pearson College’s website that the event is “a wonderful leadership opportunity for students.”
United World Colleges began in Wales in 1962 through educator Kurt Hahn with the Atlantic College. Pearson College in Metchosin was the second school, founded in 1974, with direction by former Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson. The UWC mission statement is one of unity and sustainability through education, and the organization now has 17 schools around the world.
– Felicia Santarossa, contributing writer
editor@mondaymag.com
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