LAMDA
n LAMDA in the Junior School goes from strength to strength. We now have 11 classes running each week and are looking to expand that offer in September. Over the past year, Year 5 and 6 pupils have taken acting exams, and many were drawn to comic duologues, particularly one taken from “Peter Pan Goes Wrong”. This seemed to really suit their sense of humour. It involves director’s rivalry, and a recap of how past productions have not quite hit the mark. Another popular choice was a duologue from Cinderella, where the two ugly sisters argue about who is most beautiful and most likely to capture the eye of the prince. This afforded the opportunity for some strong physicality and fighting on stage, which was huge fun for the children. Our younger students focused on presenting two poems – one from the LAMDA anthology and another of their own choosing. Humour again came to the fore and the work of an American poet – Ken Nesbitt was particularly popular. His work gives boys the chance to play with the idea of getting things wrong or being naughty which is entertaining for them and their audiences. It is so important for boys to choose material that engages them as they work towards exam success. In lessons, we were very lucky to have the support of Senior School LAMDA students. A team of them readily gave up their time as peer mentors to support classes. This is a wonderful opportunity for older pupils to develop their skills as group leaders and for younger ones to feel valued and challenged. It is an alliance we will continue as the collaboration works well for all. It has been a full on and busy year with much creativity, fun laughter and commitment from all of our students. They have fully embraced performance and developed skills in communication that will stand them in good stead across all that they do. LAMDA is both a challenge, as the children work to prepare for a formal exam, and also huge fun.
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