Creative & Cultural
Drama THE TEMPEST Fourteen pupils performed a 30-minute version of The Tempest at the Victoria Hall Theatre in Halifax on October 16. Their play was presented alongside the work of three other schools. This is the fourth year that St Peter’s have taken part in the Shakespeare Schools Festival and it is an excellent opportunity to get experience of working in a professional theatre, meet people in the industry and see three other shortened plays. Elliot Millman designed the lighting and operated the desk himself at the theatre. ‘Congratulations to the cast and crew of St Peter’s School on their wonderful performance of The Tempest. This was an accomplished and original production, and I’d like to highlight a few key elements which really stood out for me. Firstly, I was so impressed by the storytelling in this production. This was a filmic, humorous and detailed retelling of this story, with so many fantastic moments to enjoy. From Ferdinand (Peter Konstantynov) and Miranda’s (Ella Huckvale) sweetly choreographed and elegantly performed duets, to Caliban’s (Ewan Henworth) brilliant vocal choices as he emerged from the bin, and ‘Prospera’ (Holly Drake) and Ariel’s (Milly Gray) intriguing power struggles, the company created a rich and vivid world. The acting in this production was excellent – committed, thoughtful and showing a real engagement with Shakespeare’s words. I would also like to applaud this company for their work as an ensemble. They worked brilliantly as a team, supporting each other on stage. I loved the shipwreck, orchestrated by Ariel – a great ensemble moment which shifted perspectives quickly!
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The Peterite 2015-2016
I would like to applaud this cast for the touches of comedy which they brought to the story too – I liked the confusion of those discovering the island! I would also especially like to commend this cast on their hard work, enthusiasm and concentration on performance day. They were very professional, and also very positive, and particularly supportive of their fellow performing schools too. They were bold and energetic onstage and connected with the audience so that those watching could enjoy your wonderful retelling of this story. This show was contemporary, vibrant and original. A huge congratulations to all the cast and crew who made it happen. I hope to see St Peter’s School in the Festival again in 2016.’ Freddie Machin, Shakespeare Schools Festival Venue Director
