Middle School House Drama 2014.
Every year, dozens of boys are involved in school productions in the Edward Alleyn Theatre, promenade or site specific performances within the wider College campus, or at JAGS, directed and designed to exacting professional standards. As part of the Shakespeare 400 celebrations, boys performed in a newly commissioned play from Olivier Award-winning playwright Jessica Swale at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. They were involved in the script-writing process throughout; from initial workshops to devising narrative and honing character. Rising to the challenge of intensive and rigorous performance schedules can be gruelling but ultimately highly rewarding and unforgettable for boys involved. Drama at Dulwich is inclusive and we aim to imbue all our pupils with an appreciation of theatre both as practitioners and audience. Whether it be taking the initiative to tailor a play to be performed to the very youngest pupils at DUCKS for World Book Day, write and perform a Founder’s Day play, take LAMDA classes [taught by visiting professionals and
involving over 250 boys] or take advantage of the wider connections the department enjoys notably with The Globe Theatre, the Rose Playhouse and with Young Pleasance at the Edinburgh and London Fringe; boys are encouraged to be ambitious and raise their horizons beyond the classroom. ‘The theatrical discipline and attention to detail was truly impressive. Indeed, the high level of skill could be a lesson for some professional theatres.’ Mark Shanahan, Principal Guest Conductor of the Netherlands Symphony Orchestra and Head of Music, National Opera Studio ‘I got a part in the school play. It was the most thrilling thing I’d ever done... I became involved in the Drama department. Being part of that community gave me this tremendous feeling of self-worth, which is probably the most important emotion that you can have.’ Chiwetel Ejiofor, OA (1990-95), BAFTA winner & Oscar nominee – The Daily Telegraph
53
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker