Published on: Thursday, March 21, 2024
In a showcase of unparalleled talent and creativity, King's College recently unfurled two monumental performances that have dazzled audiences.
Our senior school's Musical Extravaganza took audiences on a whirlwind tour through some of Broadway's most beloved shows, delivering a performance brimming with energy, talent, and showmanship. Prior to this, the Year 6 presentation of 'Arabian Nights' transported us to a world of mystical tales and vibrant spectacle, proving that our pupils' dedication to the arts knows no bounds.
High School Musical had nothing on last Friday’s performance of the Musical Extravaganza at King's College. It had the cool of Ben n Jerry’s ice-cream but was even tastier. From the opening notes to the final curtain call, the cast whisked us away on a whirlwind adventure through the realms of The Greatest Showman, Grease, Sister Act, The Addams Family, and Footloose, to name just a few of the musicals that were celebrated. It was like a buffet of Broadway hits served with a side of sheer talent.
The highlights were too many to mention, but to give you a flavour… Clovis T and the cast made sure it was no drag to watch their performance of Everyone’s Talking about Jamie. Those performing extracts from Grease Lightning ensured a truly electrifying experience. There was no plastic acting in our scenes from Barbie. Walkers’ Academy’s renditions from Hairspray definitely left your hair standing on end. Elladie W’s witch act was simply 'Wicked' and ooh la la – the Moulin Rouge routines were something to sing and dance about. Our Mama Mia and Abba-related related actors and singers were definitely super troopers. The Greatest Showman troop rewrote the stars with an out-of-this-world performance.
Rub M and Sofya S, in particular, deserve a standing ovation for their tireless dedication and boundless talent. Whether acting, singing, or dancing, they stole the spotlight with every step. And of course, we can't forget to give a round of applause to the real heroes behind the scenes – Mrs Paul, Mr.Hoad, Elsa E, Mr Wooton and Mrs Agg-Manning – for their tireless efforts in making this production a reality.
In the end, the Musical Extravaganza wasn't just a sellout success; it was an experience that all who watched or participated in will remember for years to come.
– Adam L, Fourth Form, King's College
Last week Year 6 performed ‘Arabian Nights’, a play with song and dance that was a feast for the eyes and a spectacle of colour and sparkle. As the lights dimmed and a hush fell over the Arts Centre, an inventive set of beautiful drapes coupled with imaginative costumes catapulted the audience straight into the mystical world of the Arabian Nights. Our pupils were marvellous, determined to get every aspect of their performance spotless – the best that it could be, and were eager that the audience would be entertained.
Eight weeks of intense rehearsals brought the play together, the characters coming alive, and the scenes slotting into place. Music was added and solos sung, dance moves were practised, and a great deal of fun was had. Props emerged, stories were brought to life, and finally, the costumes were fitted and mak- up applied.
The audience were transported to Arabia, the stage set simply but beautifully with colourful silky drapes which magically became wedding cloths, exquisite curtains in rich houses and even a cave. From start to finish, the lead roles compelled their audience’s attention as they skilfully wove their tapestry of magical stories, with an injection of just the right amount of humour, physical theatre and dance. All this, together with Year 6’s beautifully captivating, expressive singing voices, made for a real treat.
The audience learned the horrifying story of the King who would take a new wife each day, killing them in the next morning. Austin confidently played the tyrant who by the end realised that he could learn to love again. His solo was thought-provoking and beautifully sung. Clemmie as Sheherazade engaged the audience with her beautiful singing and storytelling. The play was thoroughly enjoyed by our Year 6 performers, who were a dedicated and committed cast, eager to support each other and enjoy being in the limelight.
Planning, practising and performing is a real exercise in team building and communication and the chldiren rose to the ocaasion. The feel of the make-up and the jangle of the costumes, the captivating tunes and the odd line of their character, plus the sense of camaraderie with their fellow cast, will provide many happy memories for years to come.
– Mrs Kierle, Head of Drama, King's College Prep
