Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Butterworth Campus Drama Society has completed a benchmarking visit to the University of Zululand, held this past week. The exchange offered drama students the chance to experience new acting methods, production techniques, and academic approaches to theatre, while building networks with peers.

WHAT HAPPENED

The visit was designed to strengthen the academic and artistic skills of WSU drama students by exposing them to different styles of teaching and performance. Activities included workshops, collaborative rehearsals, and discussions on script analysis, directing, stagecraft, and theatre management.

Students also explored how the University of Zululand integrates drama into its academic community, learning about everything from costume design to the use of multimedia in theatre productions.

OFFICIAL RESPONSE

WSU Butterworth Campus Drama Society Director, Mr. Nhlanhla Khawula, said the trip will have lasting impact:

“The knowledge gained from the University of Zululand will go to another generation of Walter Sisulu University Butterworth Campus Drama, as we have included most of the first-year students in this benchmarking, hoping that they will transfer the knowledge and skills to the recruits for the coming years, understanding that we do Drama as an out-of-class activity.”

The director stressed that the exchange was about more than learning technical skills—it was also about building confidence and broadening artistic vision.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

For many students, the benchmarking visit marked their first exposure to theatre outside WSU. The experience expanded their perspectives on performance and production, inspiring them to take creative risks and approach their craft with renewed energy.

The collaboration also opened doors for potential joint productions or exchange programmes, creating opportunities that could benefit both institutions and the wider performing arts community.