“For many, the orchestra was the highlight of the show, unseen but unsurpassed quality, providing security for the actors and evoking the most amazing atmosphere and mood – from romantic softness to the horrific tension of violence.” The lighting crew was given its own series of workshops by renowned lighting designer Joe Hayes, who mentored up and coming lighting technicians like Tristyn Stark, Ben Davis, and George Simpson. After three months of hard work, West Side Story opened in the Assembly Hall on Wednesday 16 May. down ensured maximum effect as the show exploded into action, mirroring the violence and passion simmering below the surface of New York City in the mid-1950s. “The principals were extraordinary. As well as relying on the experience of the Year 13 leads like Holly Evans as Maria and Angus Mossman as Riff, we also had the remarkable fortune to introduce a number of Year 11 students in main roles – including Dominic Edmond as Tony, Fletcher Anderson as Bernardo, and Georgina Scott as Anita. The younger ones were really encouraged by their senior peers. The experienced cast took so many of the chorus roles that we had an incredible depth of talent throughout the show. The whole company created a phenomenal A deliberately understated beginning as the lights went
ensemble sound and was totally committed to the message and the tensions created by three of the greatest writers of musicals – Arthur Laurents, Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim.” The College boys also responded well to the challenges posed by choreographer Hannah Clarkson, music director Janet Kingsbury, and the co-directors, and warmed to the choral direction and advice given by Helen Charlton and Michael Lawrence. “We wanted the show to flow seamlessly and so we took a great deal of trouble to design a set that would allow that to happen. Every care was taken over safety – the flick knives were plastic comb novelties, and the fighting and all fight choreography was arranged by a wrestling specialist. We had to make sure all the actors were safe, while the tension of the violent confrontation was enhanced.”
David says one of his highlights was the way students like Angus Mossman, Teddy Davis, Charlie Horncastle and Robert Rolleston led the boys through their understanding of the drama process and expectation. “They helped electrify the performance.” The alchemy of theatre is real, and there was incredible chemistry and synergy among cast and crew. “The raw, industrial set, authentic costuming and spectacular, atmospheric lighting, plus the energy and enthusiasm of everyone involved combined to create something really special. It was just fantastic to see everyone working together, and to be part of such a passionate, creative team.” More than $2500 was donated by West Side Story audiences to Aviva, College’s nominated charity this year.
College Issue 35 2018
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