Laughs, Lyrics and Wireless Mic Magic: Inside ISZN’s “When in Rome…” with Kristin Jones

On 23 and 24 May 2025, the International School Zurich North transformed its auditorium into Ancient Rome for a riotous, toe-tapping production of When in Rome…. Directed by Kristin Jones, this musical comedy showcased 15 talented secondary students (Grades 6–11) alongside a dedicated three-student tech crew. Between brand-new wireless headmics, dazzling dance routines and a costume collection curated from a Swiss theatre fundus, When in Rome… blended high-energy laughs with moments of musical beauty. We sat down with Kristin to learn how this ambitious show came together—and what’s next for ISZN’s thriving drama program.

Interview with Kristin Jones

Q: So tell us Kristin, what’s When in Rome… all about?
A: When in Rome… is, at its heart, a comedy—but there are real moments of sincerity, and in particular, musical beauty.

Q: Who’s on stage – and behind the scenes?
A: Fifteen secondary students, ranging in age from Grades 6–11, plus a three-student crew handling lights, sound and backstage management.

Q: Why this play?
A: Because it’s hilarious, light-hearted and packed with amazing song and dance numbers from a huge variety of genres. It allowed us to spotlight our students’ talents and show everyone at their best.

Q: How was the preparation?
A: Preparation was intense. Auditions kicked off in January right after Winter Break, and we rehearsed twice a week all semester—about five hours per week—plus full-day Saturday sessions. This was ISZN’s first show with our new wireless headmics, so the performers and our student sound engineer all upskilled together. The result was a polished production capable of handling multiple musical styles seamlessly.

Q: What were the highlights?
A: Definitely the musical numbers. We have strong singers and really great dancers—and choreographer Hannah Harpole, a former professional dancer on staff, volunteered to take us to a new level.

Q: Any special features in set design or costumes?
A: Many costumes came from a Swiss theatre fundus in Zug clearing out old stock. I altered and embellished these high-quality pieces, and repurposed some of my old curtains into peasant garb. It was a sustainable, cost-effective way to build our wardrobe—and I happen to love sewing!

Q: What’s next?
A: Hmmm. Ask me in July—I’ll be reading scripts then! We’ll definitely stage a straight play in the fall and a musical in the spring, in keeping with ISZN tradition. Titles are still TBA.