JEDDAH: The emerging entertainment, music, and arts sectors in Saudi Arabia have provided locals and expats in Jeddah with thousands of activities and events to enjoy in 2018. The recent announcement of the construction of an opera house in Jeddah was widely welcomed as it will serve as host not only to operas but to musicals and plays as well. While the General Entertainment Authority’s 2018 program is committed to meeting the interests of all social demographics, many expat families have long benefited from these sectors via international schools. In January, the drama club at the American International School of Jeddah, under the guidance of novelist and award-winning playwright Mark W. Sasse, completed an extensive set of eight plays titled “For All Generations” which portrayed stories of love, war, family, and humor. Sasse told Arab News: “We did a minimalist ensemble show, simple set, no costumes, but the stories grabbed the audience’s hearts. We had such terrific feedback. The performing arts and drama specifically provide students with such valuable communication skills. It’s a tremendous boost of confidence for the performers when they hear the thunderous applause and realize that they have touched an audience.” Next on the theatrical agenda for Sasse and the student performers at AISJ is “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” set to premier in April 2018. Arab News also spoke to British International School of Jeddah (BISJ) student Leila Daaboul, who further touched upon the positive influence theater has in school: “Theater allows you to grow as a person by stepping out of your comfort zone. As a child, I was extremely shy, but after enrolling in a theater I gained my confidence and now feel comfortable speaking in public situations.” Along with producing theater plays, both the American International School of Jeddah and the British International School of Jeddah offer a variety of school clubs and outdoor educational activities. Clubs such as theater evening preparation, school magazine/journalism, French karaoke, dance, cookery, Build Africa, and Model United Nations are among many that are offered on campus. In addition to these clubs, AISJ organizes high-school events throughout the school year such as art exhibitions, fashion shows, talent shows, drama productions, musical concerts, and fundraising events. Outdoor educational activities for BISJ students are offered at Silver Sands Beach Resort, in North Obhur. Sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing are just a few activities that students can do.