Nearly four years ago, Lukas joined Nexus International School Singapore with a passion for musical theatre but little formal performance experience. After graduating from Nexus, he is preparing for the next stage of his journey at Italia Conti to study Acting (Musical Theatre), with the dream of one day performing in the West End.
Celebrating the IBDP Class of 2026: Lukas
When Lukas began the IB, Nexus worked with him to create a personalised IB Courses programme that allowed him to study both Music and Theatre, supporting his ambition of pursuing a career in musical theatre.
“Nexus helped me do Music and Theatre, which isn’t very regular for the IB Courses Programme. They even tailored the timetable for me, and I’m so appreciative that I got the chance to study the two things that I love.”
That personalised approach allowed Lukas to develop his passion every day, both inside and outside the classroom.
“I came to Nexus with a love for theatre, but not really much experience in it. Nexus gave me opportunities through school productions, music concerts and so many different performances. Those experiences have just built my passion.”
The classroom became a place where creativity could flourish, with Drama and Music quickly becoming his favourite subjects because they encouraged him to create, collaborate and express himself.
“I love that I’m going into a class and creating something, whether that’s composing music or making a piece of theatre. That’s been really special.”
Outside of lessons, Nexus gave Lukas countless opportunities to develop as a performer. Annual school productions, concerts at venues like Singapore Botanic Gardens and professional workshops all helped him build the confidence and experience he now draws on during drama school auditions.
The school productions, however, remain the experiences he treasures most.
“They’re so special to me because it’s where everyone comes together. On show nights, there’s such a buzz around the whole school, and the cast becomes like a family. I’ve made so many friends through the productions, from Year 7 all the way to Year 13.”
Those opportunities didn’t just help him grow as a performer. They also taught him valuable life skills.
“I’ve learned collaboration more than anything else. Working with people and with learners from different year groups has been one of my favourite things.”
Whether performing alongside older learners or buddy reading with Kindergarten children in the library, Lukas embraced every opportunity to contribute to the wider Nexus community.
Throughout that journey, his teachers became mentors who consistently encouraged him to step beyond his comfort zone.
“My Music and Arts teachers, Ms Kim, Ms Bethan and Ms Lambert have all pushed me to try different things. They encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, and I can’t thank them enough because I ended up doing things I never thought I would.”
Their support extended far beyond the classroom. As Lukas prepared his drama school auditions, his teachers dedicated countless hours to helping him choose monologues, prepare performances and navigate an application process unlike any traditional university pathway.
“They put in so much time and effort helping me choose monologues and prepare for auditions. It’s all the little things they’ve done that have helped me get where I am.”
The Nexus university counselling team also embraced the challenge of supporting a learner pursuing a less conventional route. While drama school applications differed significantly from standard university admissions, the team took the time to understand the process, research the requirements and guide Lukas through every stage.
“They really helped me understand the logistics of the application process and motivated me through what has been quite a difficult journey.”
Looking back, Lukas believes one of the biggest lessons he has learned is to make the most of every opportunity available.
“I’ve learned so much by doing things like concerts or school productions. You can’t miss these opportunities because every experience helps you build your portfolio.”
That is the same advice he now shares with younger Nexus learners, particularly those considering a career in the performing arts.
“Be out there. Do everything you can at school and take every opportunity. The process can be difficult, and sometimes it feels like it’s trying to knock you down, but don’t let it. Just keep going.”
As he prepares for the next chapter, there is one thing Lukas knows he will miss most about Nexus.
“It’s really rare to have a school where you wake up every day excited to go. We have such a strong community, great relationships with our teachers and amazing friends. I’ll miss coming to school every day because it’s been some of the best years of my life.”
Lukas’s IB journey reflects so much of what we value at Nexus: academic excellence, resilience in the face of challenge, and a deep commitment to personal growth.
As Lukas prepares to begin a new chapter, we have no doubt that he will continue to thrive and inspire. We are incredibly proud of all that Lukas has achieved and are grateful to have been a part of his journey.
Lukas is just one of our incredible learners in this year’s graduating class. To see more highlights from our IBDP Class of 2026, including cohort statistics and success stories, click here.
