Theatre Studies Archives - Heathfield School

A Level Drama Trip

Nik Mackey — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:52:55 +0000

A Level Theatre & Drama students recently enjoyed a fantastic trip to see Our Country’s Good at the Lyric in Hammersmith. Directed by the talented Rachel O’Riordan, the play explores themes of redemption, the power of storytelling and the complexities of human nature.

The experience not only deepened our understanding of the play’s historical context, set against the backdrop of the First Fleet to Australia, but also provided valuable insights into the directorial choices that shaped its impactful narrative. The exploration of how art can bring hope and change to the lives of the characters was particularly thought-provoking.

The use of both historical and modern design elements supported the fact that the themes within the play are just as relevant in 2024 as they were when Our Country’s Good was originally presented, making it a perfect complement to our A Level studies. Examples of this include the use of traditional military uniform alongside modern attire and the beautiful, unspoiled Australian landscape becoming increasingly littered with plastic bags and drinks cans.

The trip stimulated vibrant conversation, analysis and evaluation among the students and has developed our appreciation for the power of theatre.

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A Level Theatre Studies Practical Examination

Nik Mackey — Tue, 14 May 2024 08:16:58 +0000

On Tuesday 14 May, A Level students (Martha, Sasha and Scarlett) treated us to a spectacular, immersive performance based on Jean Genet’s The Maids. Their task was to reimagine the text in a different context, reinterpret it for a different audience or any other kind of creative reworking. The piece was developed using the working methods and techniques of the theatre practitioner of their choice, Antonin Artaud. His Theatre of Cruelty style was certainly evident in St Mary’s Theatre.

Highly creative use of set, music and lighting complimented their intense performance and the girls succeeded in shocking their audience, who were led into the space by silenced doctors after receiving patient ID numbers. Through cleverly choreographed movement and emotional dialogue, we followed the story of Patient 3 as she was introduced to the world of Claire and Solange, who proceeded to transform her into their Madame.

The audience stood in stunned silence after they were ushered away from the performance space. Of course, when given the all clear, the girls were greeted with rapturous applause.

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Beauty and the Beast

Nik Mackey — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 10:13:35 +0000

This week saw the opening of the whole school production of Beauty and the Beast. Students from all year groups were involved, whether in the cast, band, crew, as dressers or make-up artists, everyone came together to create a shining show, full of Disney magic. Mrs Dance led her band with great passion, and with extra special choreography by Mrs Hunt, students performed with confidence and passion. The entire cast were a privilege to direct and their hard work shone in truly polished performances.

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Physical Theatre Workshop

Nik Mackey — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:15:40 +0000

Form IV and LVI Drama students were involved in an exciting Physical Theatre workshop with Georges Hann, focusing on the creation of scenes and characters without dialogue.

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Showcase 2024

Nik Mackey — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 11:48:34 +0000

On the 19 January our students got the chance to put all their hard work into practice in the 2024 Showcase; an evening filled with LAMDA Musical Theatre, Dance, Gymnastics and Acrobatic Arts. Our students gave exceptional performances, and the stage came alive with their enthusiasm and dedication. A massive congratulations to all the students who participated.

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School Production of The Addams Family

Heathfield — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 09:52:06 +0000

Heathfield Drama and Music Departments produced an amazing three night show of The Addams Family. Two casts took part in an outstanding musical comedy performance which was met every night with rapturous applause. The standard of acting and singing was phenomenal and a result of hours of rehearsing and hard work by everyone who took part. It was also lovely to welcome new girls and their families who will be joining Heathfield in September 2022.

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