West Side Story triumph at Strode Theatre
After weeks of rigorous rehearsals, almost 100 individuals making up the West Side Story (Year 10 – Upper Sixth) production team have just completed a week’s residency at Strode Theatre, playing to over 2000 people over the sold-out run and achieving a standing ovation on the final night. We are particularly proud of the many opportunities offered to actors, musicians, dancers and stage crew in this initiative, including how all lead roles were double-cast. Free tickets were also offered to many local primary schools to attend the Friday matinée. The School has since been inundated with positive feedback from enthusiastic audience members:
“Just wanted to let you know how blown away we were with West Side Story! Such an incredible performance that really felt of professional standard. The music, singing, choreography and acting were all superb, we just loved it!”
“All of the kids were superb , vocalists, musicians and dancers . I hope you are all receiving the recognition you deserve as it was truly spectacular.”
“Finally getting a chance to drop you all a little note to say how completely blown away we were by West Side Story on Saturday evening. We’ve seen a good number of productions by the school and have always been impressed but this was a whole new level of brilliance.”
“Our daughter sat wide-mouthed for the entire duration and went off like a firework at the end straight into a standing ovation. I can’t even describe how inspirational this was for her – it’s lit a fire.”
NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) wrote a glowing review of the show, and the National School Theatre Awards (NSTA) have just announced that the production is nominated for both Best Musical and Best Ensemble, with the awards ceremony taking place in London in June.
A special thanks goes to the pupils who poured their passion and energy into every rehearsal, as well as the incredible Drama and Music Departments, whose expertise, vision, and unwavering support guided the production every step of the way. Their leadership and encouragement were instrumental in shaping the pupils’ talents into a cohesive and polished performance.
This production was not just a showcase of talent but a testament to the dedication, creativity, and community spirit that makes our School so special. A heartfelt congratulations to everyone who made West Side Story an unforgettable triumph!
With thanks to Jon Edkins of David Wiltshire Photography.
“Just wanted to let you know how blown away we were with West Side Story! Such an incredible performance that really felt of professional standard. The music, singing, choreography and acting were all superb, we just loved it!”
“All of the kids were superb , vocalists, musicians and dancers . I hope you are all receiving the recognition you deserve as it was truly spectacular.”
“Finally getting a chance to drop you all a little note to say how completely blown away we were by West Side Story on Saturday evening. We’ve seen a good number of productions by the school and have always been impressed but this was a whole new level of brilliance.”
“Our daughter sat wide-mouthed for the entire duration and went off like a firework at the end straight into a standing ovation. I can’t even describe how inspirational this was for her – it’s lit a fire.”
NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) wrote a glowing review of the show, and the National School Theatre Awards (NSTA) have just announced that the production is nominated for both Best Musical and Best Ensemble, with the awards ceremony taking place in London in June.
A special thanks goes to the pupils who poured their passion and energy into every rehearsal, as well as the incredible Drama and Music Departments, whose expertise, vision, and unwavering support guided the production every step of the way. Their leadership and encouragement were instrumental in shaping the pupils’ talents into a cohesive and polished performance.
This production was not just a showcase of talent but a testament to the dedication, creativity, and community spirit that makes our School so special. A heartfelt congratulations to everyone who made West Side Story an unforgettable triumph!
With thanks to Jon Edkins of David Wiltshire Photography.
