Oriel staff and students provided another school production spectacular in December 2019.  Showcasing the collective talents of students across all year groups again.  Cast and crew formed a strong bond in the lead up to the live performances, with many making new friendships whilst working hard.  Megan Browne who played the part of ‘Miss Lynch’ said “All the cast are so kind and hardworking. I really enjoyed being Miss Lynch and working with Sadie in rehearsals”.  Whilst being part of a huge stage family was a benefit for all the show also allowed students to step forward into the world of drama where they had not been before. Amelia Finch who played ‘Sandy Dumbrowski’ was playing a role in a school show for the first time. Amelia reflected “I haven’t acted/performed in several years and its been great to have the opportunity to do something I love for a final time before I leave Oriel after Sixth Form”.

With over 80 people involved in putting on such a fabulous production it was a big job for Drama teachers Mr Thurley and Miss Phillips. However both teachers were quick to point out that they could not do it without the support of parents/carers either. Miss Phillips stated “we would like to thank all the parents/carers of our students for their support. Thank you they could attend rehearsals, thank you for helping them, put together their costumes and thank you for helping them learn their lines and lyrics”.

The benefits of enabling staff and students to work together to put on such a production may not always seem obvious by Mr Thurley made it clear what benefits they see firsthand. “School is more than just about good exam results. It is about how experiences such as this which teach our students how to succeed beyond the classroom, push them out of their comfort zones and opens their eyes to their bright futures”. 

The show also raised £340 from refreshment donations which will be split between local charities Crawley Open House and St Catherine’s Hospice.