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THE ARTS
Bet your bottom dollar Annie was a hit!
T
here are very few theatrical shows as popular or uplifting as Annie The Musical. The story of Annie, Oliver Warbucks and many other unforgettable characters has been gracing stages around the world for nearly 50 years. So it was an exciting time for the Performing Arts students when they threw themselves into the production of the show earlier this year. From the early rehearsals to the opening night, the students embraced their roles as Annie came to life. The whole experience allowed our performers and backstage crew to express themselves and grow as people in ways they never had before. “Paolo Cercarelli (Year 12) and Trinity Coleman (Year 9) are two names that come to mind when I think about prime examples of growth and confidence. In the classroom, both of these students can be quiet and reserved but they were different people in rehearsals and the performances,” says Kate Dyer, Head of Drama.
“As Paolo and Trinity learned their lines and developed their characters, they grew enormously in confidence on stage. “I already knew about Trinity’s amazing gifts as he was in my Drama class in semester 1. His passion, motivation and work ethic are infectious. I didn’t know Paolo until he auditioned, and he too is an incredibly accomplished performer. We are very fortunate to have two such outstanding talents.”
The backstage crew of about five students worked tirelessly during the performances. They ensured props were in the designated areas before the show, during intermission and after the show, as well as rotating the elaborate set during the production. Adrenalin was high and the crew thrived on the challenge. These gifted students are quick learners and they made sure the transitions were smooth and efficient throughout each performance. Two band members also excelled in their performances. Matilda Waugh (Grade 6) and Abigail Tonkin (Year 8) both displayed a high level of professionalism throughout the performance and played beautifully. Many other cast members pitched in as well by helping with makeup and hair, and some very quick costume changes backstage. It was very rewarding to see all students helping out in some way. Many of them consider the cast of Annie like a family and they keep in contact regularly with group chats. Prior to each performance, Kate Dyer handed out awards based on students’ efforts in the previous show. Each student received an award in one of two categories, the Blooper Award and the Star-of-the-Show Award. This was a way to celebrate the students’ achievements and have a laugh at things that may not have gone to plan. We are confident this spirit of optimism and fun will continue at Haileybury Rendall School over the next year, and we can all eagerly look forward to future theatre productions which will be just as amazing as this year’s spectacular show.
