Performing Arts Residential

In November, 50 of our performing arts pupils descended on London for our annual residential tour. The trip allows them to immerse themselves in all things theatre and included West End shows, a musical theatre workshop with the cast of Moulin Rouge, sight-seeing including arts-based landmarks such as The Royal Opera House, Leicester Square and Pineapple Studios.
The trip caters to all disciplines and some of the highlights included the amazing stage show Stranger Things: The First Shadow. The play is a prequel to the hit TV series and the acting along with some pretty spectacular lighting and special effects really drew us in as an audience. We also really loved The Choir of Man. The all-male cast sung, danced and played their own instruments whilst also communicating important messages about mental health. The pupils enjoyed exploring the set in the pre-show, as well as the interactive parts that allowed for audience participation.
Another excellent aspect of the trip included the chance to work with West End performers in a masterclass at Pineapple Studios.

The iconic building in Covent Garden has 4 floors of bright and spacious dance studios where both professionals and amateur performers go to train. We worked with cast members from Moulin Rouge and got to learn part of the choreography from the number ‘Backstage Romance’, which is one of the biggest dance numbers in the musical. The pupils were all put through their paces to learn the fast-paced routine, and then had the opportunity to gain insight in to the career of West End performers, the roles they play, how they prep for shows and general industry advice.

The takeaways from these tours are always invaluable to our learners. They can write about the shows they have seen for their drama and performing arts coursework, draw inspiration in performing and lighting/design techniques, improve their choreography and dance technique… the list could go on and on.
Our trip runs annually and is open to students in Year 9 and above who are scholars, GCSE or A Level students in Dance, Drama or Music.