Drama Report 2009

As yet another academic year winds to its conclusion, I am delighted to confirm that dramatically it has been a big success, with a large majority of children having been involved, be it on the stage, behind the scenes or manning technical equipment.
As ever, the success of our dramatic projects have depended entirely on the support of staff and I wish to publically thank everyone who has helped but special mention must go to Simon Brown for his musical contribution, to Jill Etheridge for all her work on costumes and make-up, to Angus Gent and David Wheeler for their technical expertise, be it stage lighting, building sets or making props. Many thanks as well, to all parents for their support.
Curriculum drama continues to thrive, thanks to Andy Hanrahan, Lucy Stephenson (nee Baines), Rachel Holland and Lottie Pearman.
In January we had a visit from Wesley College, Melbourne, Australia. We have been on their tour itinerary since their first visit back in 2001. This year they performed Pinocchio to a very enthusiastic crowd of Year 3 to 5s. As ever we much appreciated their performance; it is always good for our children to see the enthusiasm of older students.
We had a return visit from Shakespeare and Co in June, who performed their very individual, and entertaining, version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, introducing the Bard to Year 5 and concluding the Year 6 study of Shakespeare. (PIC 1)
The Year 5 production returned to its former slot in calendar of late November. It was Andy Hanrahan’s first show for King’s and he certainly proved his mettle with a polished and highly enjoyable musical version of Robin Hood. (PIC 2)
Ths year’s Christmas Pre – Prep production Hosanna Rock was as lively and heart warming as we have come to expect. Yet again it was the result of a successful partnership between Lottie Pearman’s direction and Davina Shore’s musical direction. (PIC 3)
For once I knew exactly which show I wanted to do for the main school production; Singin’ in the Rain. It involved a lot of work and noise (forty children tap dancing is a whole new experience) but it was all worth it. It was an excellent show and all the children were terrific. We received some extremely flattering reviews!! (PIC 4)
This year it was a combined production for Years 3 and 4. Rachel Holland, who only joined us in January, not only directed the play Home Front, but also wrote it! She also chose the poignant songs from the era to accompany it. The musical direction and choreography were a combined effort from Lucy Bunce and Davina Shore. It was a delightful trip back to the 40s and all concerned should be very proud. (Pic 5)
And that of course, leads us to the Year 8 Leavers Production, last and as ever, indubitably the least. The popular choice was Mama Mia. What can I say? If you saw our version, all of a sudden Piers Brosnan sounds almost operatic! But, I must say it was great fun and the Year 8s enthusiasm made up for many (oh so many) faults.
And incredibly we’re at the end of another year and come September, the Dramatic round will all start again! 
 

Jill Sutcliffe (Head of Drama)

        

(Author: Jill Sutcliffe)

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