STUDENTS from Singapore Polytechnic's Diploma in Applied Drama and Psychology course on Wednesday took on roles as characters from the past and present to tackle the topic of conservation in Bugis Street.

The show, titled Pieces of Me, exposed students and guests to conservation and urban renewal issues as part of the National Education programme.

The 50 audience members spoke to various characters - the coolie, the rich housewife, the office worker - stationed in different parts of the Arts House about their views on redevelopment.

After the interviews, the audience adjourned to the Chamber to discuss and decide whether to keep the old buildings in the area, and try to recreate the 1970s charm, or tear down the shop houses to make way for malls and hotels.

Chairman of the National Heritage Board Michael Koh, praised the interactive theatre piece, saying the programme was a wonderful idea and more importantly 'a fun way to learn'.