National Youth Theatre Auditions
In the past couple of years, many students from Hele’s School have made it into the National Youth Theatre. Auditions for 2009 are now beginning. The National Youth Theatre is looking for anyone aged between 13 and 21 who has an interest in drama in all its forms, including acting, stage management, lighting, sound, costume making and properties. If you are interested, you need to apply on online at www.nyt.org.uk or collect an application form from the drama department. If you are thinking of a career in theatre, film, television or the media, then this would be a fantastic opportunity for you. There auditions are held locally – either in Truro or Exeter There is a poster about this up in the drama department – or have a word with Dr Kent. He will be able to advise you further. Good luck!
Syliva Sutcliffe Drama Award
On the final night of this year’s school production the Drama department presented the Sylvia Sutcliffe Drama Awards to two outstanding students who have made a major contribution to drama in the school. This year the recipients were Sam Watchman and Amy Wheeler. Sam is currently in Year 12 and has made many contributions to school productions over his career in the school. Amy completed her GCE in Drama and Theatre Studies last year, and has also contributed to many school productions past and present. She also completed a particularly impressive performance in her practical work at Advanced Level. This is the fifth year of this Award which is dedicated to the memory of former Deputy Head teacher Syliva Sutcliffe, a big supporter of drama in the school. Sam Watchman commented, “It is a great honour to receive this award. There are some legendary people already on the shield, so to be added to that list is very important to me.” Amy Wheeler said, “I am very happy to receive the award. This means a lot to me because I intend to study drama at university.”
Work Experience at Theatre Royal, Plymouth
Two students from Hele’s School recently completed a very successful work experience week at the Theatre Royal. These were Imogen Strachen and Helen Gilbert. Imogen and Helen were two of only 15 students selected for this opportunity at the theatre. The selection process itself was quite tricky, so it is testament to their hard work that of all the schools in the south-west, 2 of our students were in this group. As well as learning about the processes of making professional theatre, the students learned a great deal about life and work in the real world of acting and performing. Both students are looking to complete higher education courses in this field.
Other Drama News
Lots of our former students have been very busy. Daniel Fittock is completing all kinds of professional lighting in and around Reading University, while Daniel Machese Robinson directed a show from Birmingham University which featured in this year’s Edinburgh Festival. Meanwhile, our Year 11 students have been busy putting together their devised drama work.
