National School Theatre Awards

28 Jun National School Theatre Awards

Back in January, a group of judges from the National School Theatre Awards visited our school production of Shrek. They felt that our young cast had enough talent to be shortlisted for several awards, including Best Musical and they asked us to perform on the night. This was a huge achievement in itself, as we were up against some of the best schools and sixth forms in the country. Including, Epsom College, St Edwards and The Kings School.

We were asked to perform at the awards ceremony and had six weeks to prepare. It was fabulous getting the fairytale characters back together in the rehearsal space. Many of our Year 11 students came back to school and everyone’s commitment to our shared goal of winning was clear. Teaching staff across school, pulled together to share any props and accessories they had to glam up the pupils costumes as we could not rehire the wonderful but very expensive costumes that we had for our original show nights. We would like to personally thank Ms Boulton and Ms Draisey for their wacky donations, we can always rely on you to source the obscure things we need down in Drama.

On Monday, we headed to The Shaw Theatre in London to rehearse with some of the other shortlisted schools. Our pupils were professional in our tech run, and the show director was blown away by the energy and enthusiasm of our piece. These kind words boosted the moral of all our nervous students and was the best lift he could have given them before the big show.

The cast got changed into their black tie outfits to walk the red carpet with other stars such as David Bradley Zoe Boyle, Monica Dolan and Abbie Budden.Everybody had the best time taking selfies and TikTok’s in their best clothes. Every student looked impeccably dressed and had to rise to the occasion with exceptional behaviour and theatre ettiquette.

Then it was our time to perform. As we were standing in the wings of the stage feeling equal measure of nerves and excitement, we heard the fabulous news that Maya in Year 12 had won the award for Best Female Solo. The cast that I had kept silent for 20 minutes erupted as we cheered on our fellow cast mate to collect her well-deserved award. We were all exceptionally proud of her but it was time to go on stage so our proper celebrations had to wait until we were back in the dressing room.

On stage, the atmosphere was electric! Every student went above and beyond to perfect every movement and aspect of the song making it the best performance the cast had ever done. The audience laughed at Samuel’s comical characterisation as Pinocchio and they cheered when Nana raised the roof with his soulful solo section. We had goosebumps and all the staff agreed that we felt blessed to work with such talented young people.

I would like to personally thank Ms Hallas, our director for recapturing the magic that she created the first time around. Ms Willis, for her exceptional commitment ensuring our students go on stage looking their best with fantastic costumes and props. Finally, Mrs Richardson, for her commitment and support to the Drama Department. Particularly, every school production we have done since the school opened. It was lovely to squeeze in one final trip with you before you retire!

We hope that each one of the cast, looks back at the other school performances that they saw and thinks about where they could be with continued commitment and hard work within the performance arts subjects offered at Jo Richardson. We cannot wait to work with you all again for next musical.

Congratulations and well done to each of you.

Ms Branch and the Drama Department.