Nurturing interpersonal skills
EVER rushed to get your handphone to record your child saying or doing something special?
If you have a drama king or queen for a child, chances are your child will be a success: Your child has a natural inclination for communication.
StageCraft principal and founder Elizabeth Louis quips: “I like to say there is ‘ one skill to rule them all’. Communication is that one skill, which is above all skills.” StageCraft is Johor Baru’s premier institution for Speech & Drama.
“Communication is power, it is influence, and in the end, it is success.
“Having a good range of communication skills turns people into communication ninjas.
“They negotiate the best outcomes in every situation.”
StageCraft is the largest centre in Johor to offer Trinity College London ( TCL) courses in Communication Skills, Acting & Speaking and Corporate Training. Students range from pre- schoolers to adults.
Trinity College London ( TCL) is the esteemed, centuries- old UK and international examination board for English language and the performing arts.
StageCraft’s instructors are trained and TCL- accredited to present candidates for certifications in Communication Skills, English Literacy and Drama.
Says Louis: “Not all our students come to us with problems in communicating.
“Most just want to be able to speak more impressively and clearly.
“There is always room for improvement and polishing.
“We pay special attention to those who want to overcome their fear of public speaking, who may be struggling with obstacles or speech difficulties.
“Most people must start by overcoming a fear of judgment and rejection every time they open their mouths.
“This is not an impossible task – and we teach them how.”
StageCraft also conducts programmes for intermediate and more advanced speakers: “If you are already a competent speaker, we evaluate you for higher- level challenges like impromptu presentations, creative assignments, negotiation and conflict resolution.”
So what about the drama queens? Take heart, parents.
“Drama is an important tool in grooming public speakers,” says Louis.
Hence, a unique feature of StageCraft’s programmes is its fun factor that incorporates drama.
“Our students really look forward to the role- play and activities in class.
“It is heartening to see them enjoy the learning process so much.”
But the biggest pay off is seeing student confidence levels rise with time. “I never cease to be surprised whenever I notice improvements in a child in as short as three weeks.
“It makes me feel like I’m doing the best work in Malaysia.”
StageCraft’s enrolment currently includes students from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Japan – all of whom have varying degrees of fluency in English.
Students typically progress at their own pace to become empathetic, persuasive communicators. They develop skills and intelligence and in four key areas: Kinesthetic ( body- smart), Linguistic ( wordsmart), Musical ( rhythm- smart) and Social – Intrapersonal & Interpersonal ( self- smart and people- smart).
Observes Louis: “If you’re listening and communicating well, you will be able to manage any situation better than most people.
“This puts you ahead in the game, no matter what stage of life you’re at.”
StageCraft also conducts Corporate Training for TCL Professional Certifications in Presentation & Communication Skills.
Courses start at RM38 per lesson. Closing date for the January 2016 intake for Trinity College London ( TCL) courses in Communication Skills, Acting & Speaking, and Corporate Training is Oct 31, 2015.
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