Rising Above Doom

Less than a week before the start of my students’ 2020 ballet examinations, we were informed that the examinations will be postponed. The local situation and that of the world has prompted governments worldwide to impose restrictions on travelling and the examiners from overseas were unable to enter Singapore.

We were given the option of submitting our exam entries through filming. Just as we were planning the logistics to film our exams, we received news that all tuition centres including ballet schools would have to suspend all activities in three days’ time. We had to act fast under such time constraints. My immediate concern then, was playing the role of the examiner and having a reliable cameraman. As the RAD’s guidelines were simple and clear, the filming went through smoothly.

Sleepless nights

Little did I know that filming the examinations was only the start of more challenges to come. After the filming had been completed, I spent days watching the footage several times to make sure I have fulfilled the RAD criteria. Unlike the young teachers (I’m over 60) I am not very proficient in the use of modern technology. The ultimate challenge was how to send the footage to headquarters in London.

I opted to use DVDs. I spent a week of sleepless nights burning numerous DVDS. Unfortunately, since the office in London was closed, I was unable to post them. My local RAD director then advised me to try emailing headquarters the footage through YouTube links. She informed me that another RAD teacher had successfully submitted her entries through this method, and she put me in touch with the teacher. Although she hardly knew me, the teacher, together with her nephew, helped me create links for the footage and patiently guided me through on how to email head office and what attachments to include to ensure the entry is acceptable.

In my forty years of entering students for RAD examinations, this must be the most difficult year. I was confronted with problem after problem. But I knew I had to do my utmost best to make sure my students’ hard work did not go to waste. Hence, I focused on the task by taking a step at a time. Each time I needed any advice, I consulted the local director. I was most inspired by her steadfast and positive attitude. She seemed unshakeable by the avalanche of problems and changes.

After a month of stressful days and sleepless nights, I finally succeeded in sending the video clips to head office. I was very relieved when I was assured that the footage was fine.

Gratitude

In the midst of all the turmoil, I discovered there ARE selfless souls who are all ready to help me unconditionally. I feel immensely grateful to six people: Mrs Mona Lim, our Director for RAD Singapore, Ms Wong Sok Eng one of the RAD teachers in Singapore, my husband who filmed 11 hours of exams with hardly a break in between, and two young people (Joelyn and Aaron) who, with their considerable knowledge of modern technology helped make it possible for me to complete the task.

This has taught me what RAD means – ‘Rising Above Doom’. In this case, I surprised myself with my tenacity to tackle adversity and my ability to stay focused on how to carry out my responsibilities as a registered teacher entrusted to see my students through their examinations.

Lim Soo Chern
Singapore