If you missed the opportunity to attend The Berkeley Institute's third annual Arts Showcase, held at the school on December 17 and 18, then you missed an extraordinary show.

The audience's thunderous applause after each and every act would attest to that. 'T'was the night before Christmas' was a continuation of productions put on by the Arts Department over the last few years. The development in ability, talent, and performances was certainly evident last Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

The students demonstrated their talents in a gracious manner under the direction of the Arts instructional team leader, Dana Marie Semos. The two nights began with the musical portion of the production.

The vocal ensemble, string ensemble, choral performance troupe, concert band and jazz band performed professionally.

The concert band exhibited brilliant knowledge and understanding of music as they played their instruments confidently.

Students stepped out of the box, displaying leadership as some coordinated their performances. Olivia Oniya, an S1 student, played an exquisite piece that was something like heaven to one's ears.

Also, the jazz band led by a student, Julian Johnson on the piano, was superb in its own right. The following night's performances consisted of drama and dance routines.

The support of the Berkeley community was in full effect, as the auditorium, which was decorated by the Visual Arts Department, was jam-packed as some stood up along the sides of the room. The students performed exceptionally, both dance and drama alike.

The GCSE drama performances, led by Josephine Kattan, were astounding. The students received grades for these performances as they were used as an examination piece for the GCSE course.

The GCSE drama original exam piece was even written by the students who performed it! "The evenings were most enjoyable", says Principal Michelle Simmons, "The growth within the Arts Department was undoubtedly apparent".

The Arts Department hosted a wonderful production in demonstrating what true performing arts are. Congratulations to the Arts Department and the students led by their knowledgeable instructors for their successful showcase.

Next year, will certainly top this year's shows as planning has already begun.