2019 was a ground-breaking year for Denstone Drama, as we introduced our exciting new initiative: the Junior School play! Replacing the third form plays, this activity allowed all the students from first, second and third forms an opportunity to rehearse and perform a large scale production.
The chosen production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory captured the imaginations of our junior pupils, and a host of brilliant talent came to audition for Mrs Phillips, helped out by some of the 5th form drama team. Every student who auditioned was given an exciting role to play in our Denstone re-work of the classic tale, which involved many new characters and sections of script. Additionally a number of original songs were written in collaboration by our talented student musical director Joseph Thompson, his father Ashley Thompson and director Mrs Phillips. This made for a truly one of a kind show, exclusive to Denstone!
In rehearsal Mrs Phillips was delighted with the creativity and imagination of the junior cast. She commented ‘as a director I find it really important that the cast offers ideas and takes ownership of the show and characters. I can’t claim credit for some of the best moments of this show- it came from their brilliant imaginations, discussions we had, games we played together and I think you can see that energy running throughout our interpretation!’
The show was truly an ensemble effort, where each and every cast member shone bright at various moments. The iconic characters (Wonka, Charlie, the naughty Children, Grandpa Joe and the Oompa Loompas) we’re expertly conveyed. Additionally the characters of the chorus, Charlie’s family and the chocolate lovers added a wonderful dimension. There was a sense of fun, enjoyment and surprise in every scene that really showed the particular energy of our Denstone juniors.
The original songs were delivered beautifully and made for a sometimes very comic, at other times incredibly touching element. The comedy songs such as ‘Telly’ and ‘Give him Food’ had the audience in stitches, whereas the central ballad ‘Rich of Heart,’ which conveyed the production’s theme of helping those in need, had our audience humming thoughtfully for many days afterwards.
The technical team led by Mr Pearson and band shone with their artistry and audiences were particularly amazed at the impressive skill of Joseph Thompson, taking on the role of composer and musical director when only in 4th form! The maintenance team and Miss Lea created a spectacular set, which was enhanced variously with ‘show snow,’ confetti and a host of hilarious and inventive props created by maintenance, volunteers and the cast themselves.
All in all the feedback from audiences, including the junior school who all watched it during activities, was that the new Junior school Show is on its way to becoming a hotly anticipated highlight of the Denstone Summer term!
