Drama department

Eco-schoMy, we have been busy this term! At the end of November AS and A2 students joined forces to present an abridged version of Stephen Berkoff’s The Trial. Based on the original novel by Franz Kafka, Berkoff’s adaptation is a challenge to professionals let alone A Level students. The concept of the play is a nightmarish sequence of events as the central character seeks to clear his name from criminal charges without being told what the charges are. Berkoff’s style of theatre is physically demanding as the actors have to create every scenario using just their own bodies and voices, therefore little or no set can be used. My thanks and congratulations go to Grace Cheatle, Mei Ling Mac, Iona Campbell, Elin Dowsett, Nicola Hancox, Gemma Kay, Verity Pitt, Alice Seville, and Emily Watkins. What a formidable ensemble they proved to be.

In December, the adventurous challenge of a student led performance of Twelfth Night came to fruition. Bethan Dovey and Kathryn Buckley approached me with their ideas for staging Shakespeare’s comedy and with only a little guidance they realised a full production. This show featured very talented students from Camp Hill Boys’ and Girls’ upper schools. Although a list of the excellent performers would be a little too long, I must commend all the stage managers, crew and backstage support and would like to list those who hide back stage:

Kathryn, Shari, Julia, Neha, Lareb, Verity, Emily, Grace, Jenny, Helen, Mei , Jade, Elizabeth, Dom, Elin and not least Kathrine Koster-Shadbolt for her multi-faceted support.

The production generated much laughter and reminded us that Shakespeare’s writing takes on new meaning and shape each and every time it is performed.

In both productions the students deserve recognition for their achievement in working together, achieving ambitious goals and learning to work independently. I must say to all of the students involved; ‘You are a credit to your schools. Well done’.

Mrs Parker-Hall

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