Rydal Penrhos pupils have been speaking about how rehearsals are going ahead of the Dramatic Society production of Matilda the Musical Jr.
Excitement is building as pupils and staff put the final touches on preparations for the Dramatic Society production of Matilda the Musical Jr. next week. This is the first major showcase since Les Miserables due to COVID-19 restrictions and something the entire school is looking forward to immensely.
The school’s gifted performing artists have wowed audiences over the years with plays and musicals. These productions are always one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the calendar, with the likes of To Kill a Mockingbird and Annie the Musical becoming can’t miss spectacles enjoyed by hundreds of people over multiple nights.
Matilda the Musical Jr. will take place from 1-3 December, with a special matinee performance also scheduled within Rydal Penrhos’ Memorial Hall. It is being held a little earlier than usual performances, with the change giving pupils more time to focus on examinations during the spring term and also allowing every year group an opportunity to participate.
Rehearsals have been taking place over a number of weeks under the guidance of Head of Drama Rachel Jones and Director of Music Pete Williams, two experienced staff members with a real passion for the performing arts.
Fayeth Jones, who is playing the role of Acrobat, said the cast is like “a second family” and rehearsals are going extremely well ahead of their big moment on stage.
She said: “What inspired me to get involved was not only past experiences within the theatre but also that the cast is almost like a second family. You meet a group of people and make amazing friends who you keep for years.
“Going to rehearsal is the highlight of my day and we always have a great time. Mrs Jones and Mr Williams are so supportive and have done an amazing job with everything from music and choreography to props and staging the scenes.”
Rana Abou-Samra, who is playing the role of Lavender, echoed Fayeth’s sentiments and lauded more deserved praise on Mrs Jones and Mr Williams for their exceptional guidance and commitment throughout the rehearsal process.
She said: “I enjoy performing and jumped at the chance to be a part of the Matilda the Musical Jr. cast. Rehearsals have been so much fun with my friends, and I’ve also learned a lot from Mrs Jones and Mr Williams in a short space of time.”
Another who was thrilled with the way rehearsals have gone so far is Emily Jones, who is taking on the role of Amanda Thripp. She also revealed how much fun the cast is having despite all the hard work going into the production.
The Year 11 pupil, said: “All the cast get along so well, and going to rehearsal is the best part of my day. I’ve made many friends and we always laugh and have fun learning the new dances.
“Mrs Jones and Mr Williams are so kind and have done a great job to put this show together in such a short time. I think the shows are going to be great and so much fun.”
Matilda was originally a book created by legendary children’s author Roald Dahl in 1988 before becoming a feature film in 1996 and transformed into a stage musical in 2010.
The story itself centres on Matilda, who shares a home with her parents and brother, who do not appreciate her. When the Principal tortures her and her kind-hearted teacher, she uses her telekinetic powers to settle scores.
Tickets are still available for anyone wishing to attend, although they are limited for Friday’s performance.
Anyone wishing to book a ticket for the production can do so here.
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Anyone wishing to enquire about Rydal Penrhos School can do so by calling 01492 530155, email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or register your interest online here: https://rydalpenrhos.com/admissions/apply-now.
