What international schools in Singapore offer comprehensive performing arts programmes? Here are 10 schools that include various artistic disciplines into their performing arts curriculum, and we hear from students about their experiences with musicals, dance, orchestras and speech and drama programmes.
Dulwich College (Singapore) – a focus on performing arts and music
All Dulwich students are encouraged to take to the stage, whether it’s joining in celebrations for festive holidays or performing in College events. From the age of four, specialist music lessons are provided within the curriculum while specialist lessons in drama and dance start in Year 3. Every Junior School student is taught how to read music and is given an instrument to take home. The arts continues to feature through the curriculum with options to study drama, dance, film and theatre at IGCSE and in the IBDP.
In August 2022, Dulwich introduced the IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme) in performing arts in partnership with UAL (University Arts London), a unique offering for Singapore’s international students. The school’s resources create opportunities for students to experience all areas of the arts. These include a professional 750-seat performing arts theatre, a 400-seat multipurpose auditorium, three film studios, three dance studios and four drama studios. The aim is to create an atmosphere that replicates the stages of Broadway or the West End.
Their performance development programme, Ignite!, fosters development in students who are particularly committed to aspirations of becoming performers, creators, directors, designers or choreographers. It gives them the opportunity to take on larger and more challenging roles in smaller case performances; participate in specialised workshops such as make-up artistry, radio drama, musical theatre workshops and set design classes that aren’t in the curriculum; attend master classes in audition technique, and receive support in creating a performing arts portfolio. Dulwich partners with the Royal Shakespeare Company, International School Theatre Association, Auckland Dance and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art offer students the chance to collaborate with experienced professionals from the performing arts.
A student’s thoughts the performing arts at Dulwich College
“Studying in the production and performing arts programme at Dulwich has played a pivotal role in my skill development, especially as a performer. Through a structured curriculum intertwined with endless experiences and opportunities, I developed essential performance techniques and gained valuable stage experience. My journey as an actor has been supported by my teachers, helping me refine my craft and fostering a deep passion as I continue my pursuit into my career as a performer.” – Charlotte Scott, Year 13
71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8
6890 1003 | singapore.dulwich.org
Tanglin Trust School – new spaces for student drama performances
Drama is firmly embedded in school life at Tanglin. There’s a vibrant calendar of 13 productions involving more than 1,100 students from the Infant, Junior and Senior Schools. Performances range from student-led productions to large-scale performances, spanning comedy, serious drama and much-loved classics such as Oliver! Jr and Guys and Dolls.
The creative arts are regarded not as an add-on, but as an essential part of a holistic education that nurtures imagination, confidence and self-expression while supporting wellbeing and character development. As Tanglin CEO, Craig Considine notes, “Creativity is truly the beating heart of what we do in education at Tanglin.”
Tanglin has invested considerably in its drama facilities in recent years, including enhanced Senior School drama spaces and the new Junior Arts Centre (JAC). The JAC enriches the Junior curriculum, offering an environment designed to inspire and challenge. Its Black Box Theatre is home to bespoke Junior productions. Head of Junior Drama, TJ Taylor, explains that these spaces “spark imagination, encourage collaboration and elevate every performance.” Students also benefit from specialist teaching and visits from international theatre companies, ensuring they both create and experience exceptional theatre.
A student’s feedback on drama at Tanglin Trust
“Drama is my absolute favourite lesson in school. I love it so much, I’ve taken it as a CCA every term, since the beginning of Junior School. I think drama is a really important life skill because it teaches us to think on our feet, express ourselves with confidence, and look up and out at the world. Most of all, it reminds us to always have fun in life! I feel very lucky to have such a great drama programme teacher and drama space to perform in at school.” – Caitlin M, Year 5
95 Portsdown Road
6778 0771 | tts.edu.sg
Brighton College (Singapore) – performing arts embedded within the curriculum
At Brighton College (Singapore), The performing arts are an essential part of school life and are fully embedded within the curriculum. From the youngest pupils in Nursery to Senior School pupils, every child takes part in Dance, Drama and Music lessons. This nurtures creativity, confidence and a lifelong love for the arts.
At the core of the performing arts programme is performance. Pupils share their work through class assemblies, end-of-term productions and a variety of showcase events throughout the year. This year, the Brighton Theatre Company was launched for Prep and Senior pupils, alongside the continued success of the Orchestra, Choir, and numerous musical bands and ensembles. The performing arts community also extends to families, with a thriving Parent Choir bringing the Brighton school community together through music.
The school’s peripatetic music programme offers pupils the chance to develop instrumental and vocal skills through individual tuition. LAMDA courses further strengthen communication and performance skills. Pupils also have the opportunity to work with local and visiting artists, gaining real-world insight into the creative industries while performing with professional technical support.
With the introduction of IGCSE Performing Arts courses this year, A-level courses next year, and new state-of-the-art facilities for Music, Drama and Dance opening in September 2026, the future of the performing arts at Brighton is brighter than ever.
A student’s review on performing arts at Brighton College
“Performing arts at Brighton is such an amazing part of school life. It’s always full of energy, fun, and creativity, and everyone’s included no matter your experience or confidence level. There are so many exciting projects throughout the year, and one of the biggest highlights is the Summer Musical. Last year’s Journey Through the Musicals was incredible to be part of! We also have awesome events like Brighton’s Got Talent, which gives everyone a chance to perform and share what they love doing. The teachers are so passionate and inspiring, and they make every lesson and rehearsal something to look forward to. It’s honestly the perfect place to express yourself, grow in confidence, and be part of something really special.” – Sophie S, Year 9
1 Chuan Lane
6505 9790 | brightoncollege.edu.sg
International French School (Singapore) – dynamic performing arts programme
The performing arts programme at the International French School’s (Singapore) is a dynamic fusion of music, dance and drama. It creates an enriching artistic environment for primary through secondary levels.
Under the guidance of experienced teachers like Julie Olivia Demange-Wodtke, the music department students participate in prestigious regional events. Among them is Chorasies, where they collaborate with peers from French schools across Asia-Pacific in a diverse repertoire spanning classical to contemporary style.
A highlight of the dance programme are the workshops conducted by renowned choreographers such as Rodolphe Viaud. During the PROZAP Dance Festival, students explore classical to contemporary, and also hip-hop and street dance. The drama department conducts both French and English productions, with upper-level students having the opportunity to pursue drama as part of their French Baccalaureate curriculum.
As a member of the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad) network, IFS students benefit from opportunities such as cultural exchanges, masterclasses with visiting artists and participation in regional festivals. These enable students to explore different traditions, build international friendships and develop a global perspective essential for today’s connected world.
A student’s view on the choir at IFS
“Joining the choir has been an enriching experience, offering more than just vocal training. It’s taught me to harmonise with others and improve my technique. The school’s music programme provides a wonderful opportunity to develop musical skills, express creativity and grow in a supportive and inspiring environment.” – Marina Sizaire, Grade 10
3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
6805 0000 | ifs.edu.sg
UWCSEA – dramatic and performing arts opportunities
UWCSEA’s East and Dover campuses offer a wide-ranging performing arts programme. The programme is instrumental in developing intercultural understanding, which is a key facet of the UWC mission. K-12 students learn dance, drama, music and instruments through rigorous academic pathways, an extensive Activities programme and year-round performance opportunities.
Materials for many productions are drawn from many cultures, embracing the 117 nationalities that make up UWCSEA’s student body.
In Primary School, students engage with music that they may not encounter otherwise, playing the djembe or Gamelan. They learn songs from different cultures and also hold an annual UN Day performance.
In Middle and High School, a robust Artist-in-Residence programme – generously supported by the school’s community – covers a broad spectrum of theatre skills, traditions and styles while exploring cultures of Southeast Asia. Students learn from masters of Silat Tua, Kathakali and even Clowning. Students draw on these new skills in ambitious productions led by the Drama department.
The community eagerly anticipates student-led cultural performances such as UN Night and CultuRama, along with events like Opus, a celebration of all the musical ensembles of Dover campus, held at Singapore’s Esplanade theatre.
These examples only scratch the surface of the comprehensive Performing Arts Programme at UWCSEA. It is deeply integrated into school life, and enjoys strong support from the school’s diverse community.
A testimonial on student-led productions at UWC
“Student-led productions give us an opportunity to bring a story to life and shape it into a show from start to finish. Directing a play isn’t just about knowing the script – it’s about learning how to be a leader who can adapt, collaborate and think on our feet. We learn how to manage our time, problem-solve and open ourselves up to diverse perspectives when we work with others to create something amazing.” – Rory, Grade 11, Theatre Director at Dover Campus
- Dover Campus: 1207 Dover Road | 6774 2653
- East Campus: 1 Tampines Street 73 | 6305 5353
Singapore American School – performing arts as part of the curriculum
The performing arts at SAS are an integral part of the curriculum. Professional musicians, illustrators, actors and choreographers collaborate with students through the visitors-in-residence programme, enriching the learning experience of SAS students. Students and teachers also participate in renowned international music and theatre festivals, such as the International Thespian Festival.
The school says it celebrates the rich cultural diversity within its community by hosting guest artists from around the world. From Southern Indian violin styles to Malaysian folk songs, students explore global traditions. This broadens their horizons and deepens their connection to the arts.
SAS graduates have been accepted into prestigious arts institutions and selective university programs, with alumni thriving across various creative industries.
A student’s thoughts on speech and drama at SAS
“Speech and drama is an explosion of creativity! Watching the performances at SAS lets me see some really great performers do really great things on stage. It’s inspiring to see people on stage in front of a full theatre and being absolutely amazing. Collaborating is also a huge part of participating in drama. It’s a great way to build trust in our community since we are working so close together on performances. It’s important to feel like you can make a mistake, so building trust is really important. This is something that our educators always make a point of including at the beginning of a semester.” – Sidney, Grade 9
40 Woodlands Street 41
6363 3403 | sas.edu.sg
Nexus International School – from specialist teachers to global stages
The arts are a key part of the Nexus curriculum. In Primary, learners benefit from specialist Music and Art teachers; in Secondary, this extends to expert Drama programme teachers. The school’s facilities, including an auditorium, black boxes and recording studio, support the vibrant creative community.
Beyond the classroom, the school boasts over 25 music ensembles, including choirs, orchestras and podcast clubs. Art and Drama departments run CCAs, including Primary and Secondary Productions, and a ceramics CCA, bringing Nexus learners and the local community together.
The extensive Instrumental and LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) programmes support learners through external LAMDA, ABRSM and Trinity exams.
IBDP Theatre learners engage in workshops with leading practitioners at the ISTA Theatre Arts Symposium, which Nexus recently hosted. Similarly, Nexus musicians perform at venues like Singapore Botanic Gardens and CHIJMES. There are also global opportunities including trips to London’s West End and competitions across Asia, such as FOBISIA Battle of the Bands.
A student’s view on theatre productions at Nexus:
“Theatre has helped me grow, both on and off-stage. I’ve gained confidence in class as well as when I act. My teachers are instrumental in supporting my development, whether providing the resources we need, or just guiding us creatively.” – Molli, Year 13
1 Aljunied Walk
6536 6566 | nexus.edu.sg
Canadian International School – exciting range of drama and musical opportunities
The arts are embedded into school life at CIS, through a rigorous curriculum and multiple performance opportunities. There’s also a wide range of extracurriculars, activities and clubs. With equal opportunities from early years to secondary, every student has a chance to perform, take on lead roles and explore different facets of the Arts throughout the year. Students develop the creativity, confidence and adaptability needed to turn great ideas into reality through music, drama and visual art.
The school has six annual productions on the drama calendar. Students develop artistic literacy, design thinking, cognitive flexibility and collaborative skills through designing, script writing, composing, choreographing and more. They experiment with staging, lighting, music and movement, learning how to solve problems creatively and adapt to real-world challenges. Students also have multiple avenues to explore and share their talents through the CIS Academy of Music with over 20 bands, 10 choirs and 25 ensembles.
Students perform on stages around the world, and take part in masterclasses from leading conservatories and performing arts schools. They also enjoy a wide range of after-school programmes, including opportunities with LAMDA and Trinity College London.
The school has a dance studio, a recording studio, a film studio, a 200-seat Black Box theatre, a 500-seat David Foster Theatre and a front-of-school stage that turns the atrium into a daily showcase for student talent. Performing arts scholarships are given to challenge and support students on their journey.
20% of CIS graduates pursue Arts at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy of Music, Parsons School of Design, Central Saint Martins, and Berklee College of Music.
A student’s thoughts music and theatre classes at CIS
“Music has always meant the world to me; I wouldn’t be where I am now with my musical and theatrical knowledge, if it weren’t for the expertise of the teachers and leaders at CIS.” – Victoria May H, Grade 12 Performing Arts Scholar
7 Jurong West Street 41
6467 1732 | cis.edu.sg
St. Joseph’s Institution International – involving all students in music, drama and art
The performing arts curriculum at SJI International is dedicated to celebrating talent and fostering innovation, supporting deep student development and achievement across all levels. In the Elementary School, a growing team of dedicated music educators delivers a robust curriculum, cultivating a deep appreciation for music. Students build their skills by participating in various ensembles, including choirs, orchestras and chamber groups. The music department’s commitment to inclusivity ensures every child can explore their musical talents through classroom activities or the instrumental teaching programme. Student progress and achievements are regularly showcased in performances, recitals and music festivals.
High School students benefit from a comprehensive arts foundation. Each week, the curriculum includes dedicated lessons in Visual Art, Drama, Music and Design Technology (DT). These highly practical classes are designed to develop both creativity and character. They utilise specialist facilities such as the Black Box theatre, dedicated music practice rooms, as well as Arts and DT Studios.
Beyond the classroom, students engage in a rich array of arts-focused Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs). These offerings provide opportunities to explore new skills, ranging from the Production CCA where students learn technical staging skills like lighting and set design, to the Logic Pro club for musical composition, and the Digital Art CCA utilising apps like ProCreate. The school’s thriving orchestra, choir and various music performance CCAs also perform regularly.
Throughout the year, students participate in a wide variety of key events, demonstrating their talent to the community. Recent highlights include the Arts Festival: Soleil Nouveau, a Cinephonic Concert, a lively production of Animal Farm, and the upcoming performance of The Addams Family: The Musical.
A student’s testimonial on performing arts at SJI International
“Being part of the performing arts at SJI International has been one of the best parts of my school life so far! Throughout my time here, I’ve been in a few school productions as well as played the piano for House Band in lots of events in and out of school. They’ve been so fulfilling not just because of the learning they’ve provided but also because of the company that I shared them with. Being part of a musical in particular has been something I’ve wanted for so long. Singing and dancing as Morticia in our school’s current Addams Family production has been nothing short of a dream. Every day, I feel so lucky to have been blessed with these opportunities. I really encourage every student to take part: it will change your life in more ways than one!” – Jessica, Grade 10, 2025
490 Thomson Road
6353 9383 | sji-international.com.sg
North London Collegiate School (Singapore) – a space for music, drama and dance
The Performing Arts programme at NLCS (Singapore) inspires a deep appreciation for music, dance, drama and visual arts. It spans all age groups, encouraging every student to experience the joy of performance, regardless of ability. Students take part in numerous productions and showcases that bring their creativity to life in facilities such as a 700-seat theatre, dance studio, black box studio, and purpose-built music rooms. Past performances include Bugsy Malone, Twelfth Night, The Incredible Adventures of Super Stan, Battle of the Bands and Pandora’s Box the Dance Show.
In partnership with LAMDA, students follow a structured examination syllabus with certified teachers. Additionally, over 200 students pursue personalised instrumental lessons. This year, young musicians also performed to a sold-out audience at the Esplanade, gaining invaluable stage experience in the process. They also participated in the NLCS Music Festival, joining peers from sister schools in a week of inspiring musical collaboration.
The annual Arts Festival is a four-day celebration of creativity, featuring performances across disciplines and collaborations with global industry specialists. Highlights include the Young Directors Programme and a Fashion Show, reflecting the school’s wider ties with the arts and design. It’s a total immersion in creativity that helps to reinforce the belief that the arts are vital to a well-rounded education.
A student’s thoughts on The Arts at NLCS
“NLCS (Singapore) provides an abundance of opportunities for students to immerse themselves in The Arts, guided and supported by passionate teachers. Some highlights for me include acting in NLCS’s first musical, Bugsy Malone, hosting the NLCS Esplanade Concert, performing as a vocalist in Big Band, and singing as part of the Chamber Choir. My love for the arts, and the connections that I have made through the Performing Arts programme have been invaluable to me.” – Elsie, Grade 11
130 Depot Road
6989 3000 | nlcssingapore.sg
Dover Court International School – international performing arts collaborations
The expressive arts are a vibrant part of school life at Dover Court International School, with every student from Nursery to Sixth Form encouraged to explore and express themselves through diverse opportunities. These include Primary productions, Secondary studio showcases, Battle of the Bands, weekly lunchtime performances and more.
The school’s collaboration with The Juilliard School is celebrating its 10th anniversary. It introduces world-class expertise into the classrooms through curriculum resources and workshops for students, teachers and parents. Juilliard’s inclusive approach to arts education – designed for all students, regardless of future ambitions – aligns perfectly with Dover Court’s values. It fosters student-led inquiry, links learning to professional artistry, and nurtures each student’s creative voice.
The school’s LAMDA Speech and Drama programme continues to thrive. Students from Years 7 to 13 continue achieving outstanding results, including a 100% pass rate at Merit and Distinction levels in 2025.
Students passionate about music also have the opportunity to participate in Nord Anglia Education’s Virtual Young Musician of the Year competition. They join peers from over 80 schools worldwide in a celebration of talent and global connection. Last year, a talented DCIS Year 5 student was named the global winner in the Popular Music category – a testament to the school’s music programme.
The DCIS team says that the performing arts are a vital part of students’ personal and academic growth, helping build confidence, encouraging self-expression and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
A student’s view on Drama as a GCSE
“I’ve always been interested in Drama, and when I found out Drama GCSE was an option, I was instantly sold! DCIS provides many opportunities to take part in performing arts-related activities for example, plays, Juilliard workshops and leadership roles in directing. The Juilliard workshop specifically sparked my interest and helped me discover the kind of actor I want to be in the future. Hearing someone so passionate speak on their experiences really showed me how much theatre impacts individuals and how moving it is.” – Amalya, Year 12
301 Dover Road
6775 7664 | dovercourt.edu.sg
Chatsworth International School – fostering an arts culture
The arts are integral to the holistic education at Chatsworth International School. Chatsworth offers music, drama and visual art within the academic programme and a variety of arts-themed co-curricular activities. Primary school students from Kindergarten to Year 6 attend separate lessons each a week in Music, Performance and Visual Art. Secondary students in Years 7 to 9 take three arts disciplines – Visual Arts, Music, Drama – with three lessons in each cycle. In Years 10 and 11, students choose one arts discipline to focus on, with a mind to proceed to the Visual Arts, Music or Theatre Studies courses in the IB Diploma.
Chatsworth says that its passionate arts teachers contribute greatly to the arts culture at the school, consistently inspiring students and providing opportunities for learning from creative artists. Students are encouraged to take part in performances at the school, too. These can be in festive or cultural celebrations, Secondary Arts Night or the Primary Expresstival. The latter is a week-long event where primary students express themselves in wide-ranging activities with the Sing Off and Dance Off being one of the most anticipated primary events. Each year, both the primary and secondary sections stage musical productions separately, which are always very well attended by members of the Chatsworth community. In January 2025, secondary students took on the demanding task of staging musical theatre. Their adaptation of the famous Broadway production, The Addams Family, raised money from ticket prices for the school’s adopted charity.
Students also have opportunities to learn from experts and connect their knowledge to the real world. For example, the school organises drama workshops conducted by accomplished producers and actors. These help students work on their expressive performance, vocal confidence and creative collaboration.
Student’s feeback on Chatsworth’s performing arts programme
“The Performing Arts programme at Chatsworth has given me countless opportunities to perform and grow as an artist and as an actress. These include lunchtime performances to Arts Night and even The Addams Family musical staged at the Singapore Repertory Theatre. These experiences have allowed me to express myself creatively and collaborate closely with others. They’ve helped me build my confidence and continue to nurture my passion for the performing arts.” – Yein (Joy) Lee, Year 13 (2025-26)
72 Bukit Tinggi Road
6463 3201 | chatsworth.com.sg
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