By Ms Emberson (Drama Teacher and Head of PSHE)

On Thursday 20th July, in the first week of the school holiday, four members of staff and 37 Drama students from Years 9 to the Lower Sixth embarked on an exciting residential visit to London, to experience some theatrical magic together.

On arriving in London, we went straight to the Adelphi Theatre to watch a matinee performance of Back to the Future: The Musical. This was an exciting production with outstanding set and lighting design, and special effects that left all of us speechless. After a pizza meal we then made our way to the Gielgud Theatre where we watched the National Theatre's acclaimed version of The Crucible. Once again, the set was stunning, but the intense naturalistic performance was a complete contrast to the first performance we saw. The two productions were selected to appeal to and challenge different theatrical tastes.

The next morning after an early breakfast we were treated to an extensive backstage tour of the National Theatre, where we were lucky enough to see sets and props being constructed, and to learn about this wonderfully flexible venue. After lunch and some shopping in Covent Garden we made our way to the world-famous Pineapple Dance Studios, where the students took part in a workshop lead by cast members from Back to the Future, and learnt some of the choreography from the show. A Q&A session with these professional actors allowed students to understand the possible pathways they could take to pursue their love of theatre in the future.

The Dance and Drama Department is looking forward to running this trip again next summer.

Mia (Year 11) said: I enjoyed watching Back to The Future because it was thrilling. I enjoyed the set of 'The Crucible', especially the real rain.

Nawaal (Year 11) added: “I especially enjoyed the special effects of the Back to the Future musical, because it made it a very immersive experience, especially when the car flew out. It was a very good trip. I enjoyed all of the activities.”

Thandi (Year 11) said: “It was a very enlightening experience and I will do it again. One not to miss! “