Recently, AMICUS junior high school students held their Performance Day and staged an original English musical, “Gate Side Story.” Based on Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story, this unique production was created entirely by the students themselves.

The story is set in 1970s Okinawa. Against the background of complex relations and conflicts between the U.S. military and local Okinawans, it portrays the bittersweet romance between Mari and Tony. The play reflects on history and society, questioning the difficulty of mutual understanding and emphasizing the importance of facing hardships together.

Although an approaching typhoon threatened the event, the students’ continuous hard work paid off, and the show went on successfully.

The students took the lead in every part of the production, including scriptwriting, acting, singing, dancing, and live music. While the lines were performed entirely in English, Japanese subtitles were provided so that the entire audience could fully enjoy and connect with the story.

Furthermore, students took full responsibility for essential backstage roles, such as music, props, costumes, lighting, and sound. Working together under a limited schedule was a valuable learning experience for everyone.

The students did not just learn English; they used it to think, express themselves, and deliver their message. Through this experience, we could truly see the immense growth of each and every student.

Thank you very much to everyone who came to support the performance!