The Spring Term ended with the performing arts extravaganza that is our annual ‘Encore’ variety show.
A stellar range of dance, dramatic and musical performances took on this year’s theme of ‘Amore’.
The entire production involved an incredible 181 students – almost 15% of the school. Playing two packed-out shows, ‘Encore’ was seen by a combined audience of nearly 600 people.
By tradition, the final performance was also our annual Sheriff of Lichfield Show. The Sheriff of Lichfield, Revd Ian Hayter, closed the finale by graciously acknowledging the hard work of students and staff – as well the ongoing support of our parents and families – that is required to put on a showcase of this quality.
The Mayor of Lichfield, Cllr Claire Pinder Smith, was also in attendance and supported the work of our tireless PTFA in raising vital funds for the school.
The show included performances from ‘Romeo & Juliet’, ‘Grease’, ‘Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Matilda’, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and a scene from Troilus & Cressida. A dramatic interpretation of Benny Hill’s ‘Ernie, the Fastest Milkman in the West’ only added to a truly eclectic mix.
Friary’s own ‘Emergence’, fresh from their recent Staffordshire Battle of the Bands triumph, made a star appearance. The school’s Training Band, Choir, Senior Choir, Boys Choir, Orchestra, Y10 Performing Arts and KS3 Drama groups further demonstrated the depth and variety of student talent. There were also jazz, lyrical and tap dance performances, a lyrical troupe performance, solo musical performances, as well as other song and dance combinations.
Year 13 students (and school show stalwarts) Phoebe Marsh and Lula Sanders gave an emotional final performance of ABBA’S ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’. They spoke on behalf of the Student Cast and Crew to thank school staff for all their support.
Mark Drury, Headteacher, said: “Our students and Performing Arts team put on a fantastic ‘Encore’ show. There were over a hundred Year 7 and 8 students in the cast, which bodes very well for the future. We’re very grateful that civic leaders, friends and family came out in such numbers to support our students.”
