The Performing Arts Department have kicked off the academic year with an exciting trip to London’s West End.

On Tuesday, the Year 11 Performing Arts cohort had a day full of excitement and terror. We arrived in London’s West End and participated in a workshop, run by the stage crew of the gripping production of ‘The Woman in Black’.

In this workshop, the students performed on the West End stage using extracts and moments from the show, with the focus of creating tension and suspense for the audience. This was invaluable for the students as they continue to compose their research journal on how they would direct and perform extracts of the play, in preparation for coursework assessments. This was followed by a meander through the fabulous streets of Covent Garden, full of street performers, swish cafes and exclusive shops; allowing the students time for a taste of the West End high-life.

After lunch, we braced ourselves for the terrifying but thrilling performance of ‘The Woman in Black’ itself. The students were at the edge of their seat while the chilling story unfolded. There were lots of shocks, little jumps in their seats and holding on to the person next to you… and that was just the teachers! Finally, the students were offered the rare opportunity to talk to the two-man cast after the performance. The cast were impressed by the insightful questions from the students about the production, as well as the actor’s professional experience and progression.

Harriet Bates, Drama teacher and trip organiser, said: “All in all, it was a busy yet wonderful day experiencing the glamour of the West End. Not many people can say that they’ve performed on a West End stage – but now our students can!”