A record number of Plasies registered for MDDA classes and students performed well during examinations, competitions and the Tzaneen Eisteddfod.
The Dance, Drama and Art teachers are also eagerly awaiting the move to the new MDDA headquarters early in 2018.
This will unify all departments under one roof, close to the main school building.
Mari Weber, MDDA Manager, furthermore announced that two new exciting departments will be added to the already impressive bouquet next year: Photography (which is sure to be a hit with the Plasies) as well as Contemporary Piano classes incorporating the well-known Rockschools syllabus.
Read: Glitz and Glamour at Merensky MDDA gala evening
Both these will be presented by Anica Scholtz, a newcomer to the Tzaneen area.
Scholtz runs her own photography studio and is a journalist for a well-known ladies magazine. She holds a degree in Journalism from NWU, as well as a Grade 8 in Rockschools Piano.
Another newcomer is Lize-Mari Jooste who will head the fine arts department.
She holds an honours degree in Art, Art History and Multimedia Design from NWU. Jooste runs Studio 54 in Tzaneen where she tutors fine art, graphic and multimedia design and photography.
Last but not least, Thessa Bekker will be presenting vocal lessons to all Plasies interested in improving their singing talent.
Thessa is an occupational therapist with a keen interest in everything musical.
She sang in school choirs, rock bands and sêr groups and was coached by the well-known Coba Wicomb in Stellenbosch.
Her vibrant personality and fine alto voice will surely inspire vocalists.
Well known local actress, Anriette van Rooyen, has been assistant Drama coach for the past two years.
She runs the Green Room at Merensky’s Teatro where she teaches drama to primary school learners.
From 2018 she will be responsible for the grade 8’s, enticing them into the wonders of drama.
She also offers Trinity exams to interested drama students in higher grades.
It was sadly time to say goodbye to Bobbi Gerber who headed the vocal section for the past two years.
Under her tuition many budding singers metamorphosed into stars on the Plasie stage.
Read: Plasies’ got talent
After only one year as fine arts tutor, Berthie Greyling also bids farewell, as her art journey is about to travel lesser known roads in Australia.
Under her tuition the arts department held an exhibition and did amazing clay sculptures.
The headmaster, Magnus Steyn, proposed a toast to all concerned and reiterated that the MDDA does Merensky High School proud.
Arts and Culture is surely alive and well at Plasieland.
2018 MDDA info brochures are available on the school’s website, www.hsmerensky.co.za.
Hard copies are also available from the M-Bank.
Concerned parties are urged to register before classes commence in February 2018, as there is a limit to how many students each department can handle.
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