A Fine Arts Festival was held to celebrate 80 years of God's faithfulness to Dalat International School in early June 2009 at the Dewan Sri Pinang Performing Arts Center in Georgetown. The event was free and open to the public. This was Dalat's first time to hold a major event off campus and open to the public.

 

The evening began with a art exhibit featuring art from Dalat's middle and high school students. Paintings, drawings, and scupltures were all displayed in the foyer of the auditorium among bright lights and a reception featuring western and Penang delights. One comment was made from a visitor that the quality of artwork was so high that you don't get to see pieces like this even at colleges. Everyone enjoyed the time to view the works and chat with friends.

 

When the doors were opened about 600 guests filled the auditorium and were greeted by Mr. Karl Steinkamp, Director of Dalat International School. Karl told everyone that they were about to witness a community in action; something beautiful and special created by many people working together. A representative from the Chief Minister's Office was present and gave a short speech on the significance that Dalat School has played in Penang over the last 38 years and the last 80 years in SE Asia. "I suppose if we were to get every student who has ever studied at Dalat School over the last 80 years in one place I suppose the largest stadium in Penang would not be able to hold them all." Dalat International School has certainly made an impact on many lives over the last 80 years and will continue to do so.

 

The music began with the Concert Band performing "Festivo" and an amusing piece "The Typewriter". The Concert Choir began their evening with a Korean folksong and the modern song "Fields of Gold". The Concert Band finished up with popular scores from "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Lord of the Rings". The song that received the most applause was performed by the Vocal Ensemble with their acapella version of the "William Tell Overture" with featured exciting choreagraphy and terrific singing. The Concert Choir returned and sang "Everybody Rejoice!" from Godspell and ended their evening with the traditional "The River", an opportunity for all present alumni to get up and sing with the choir. The evening was finished off by the Jazz Band with "Stompin' at the Savoy" and the ever popular "Born to be Wild".

 

Everyone left with smiles on their faces and insisting that this be an annual event. It was certainly an opportunity to enjoy the hard work of many students and teachers throughout the year and celebrate 80 years of God's goodness.