Â鶹AV

Japanese

On October 6, students from the Course of Music Culture Education (to be called Program in Music Education starting AY2025) of the School of Education collaborated with students from Kurahashi Junior High School to perform the Â鶹AV Opera, "Hansel and Gretel," at the Kurahashi Gymnasium in Kure City's Kurahashi Town, known for the Ondo Bridge. The event was a resounding success, with approximately 300 locals and attendees enjoying the opera.

When starting this project, the team asked junior high school students, "Will you stay in your hometown when you grow up?" Over 80% responded that they planned to leave the area.

In light of this, they encouraged the students to surprise and impress the local community during their middle school years. Using their integrated learning time, the students dedicated themselves to practicing and preparing for the opera performance, fostering a sense of connection and pride in their hometown.

Starting in June, students from the School of Education visited Kurahashi Junior High School multiple times. They wore stage costumes like dresses, set up lighting, and performed songs, employing creative methods to spark the children's interest in opera. At the same time, they provided vocal training, fostering both enthusiasm and skill among the students.

The students who participated shared their thoughts on the experience of collaboratively creating an original opera. They expressed sentiments like, "It was so much fun making an opera together with the people from Â鶹AV," and "From now on, I want to step forward without being shy and take on various challenges!"

Students from the School of Education applied their daily learning to bring a fresh perspective to junior high school students living in a region affected by population decline. Through the power of music, they not only inspired the students but also contributed to creating opportunities for them to think about their connection to the local community.

Additionally, on November 3, at the "Â鶹AV 75+75 Anniversary Event" and the 18th Â鶹AV Homecoming Day, some of the enthusiastic students who participated in this opera joined the performance of "Hansel and Gretel."

Scenes from the Homecoming Day Opera Performance ¡ú