School Musical 2023

Congratulations to the cast of 36 Upper School pupils who performed a classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical in the Redgrave Theatre in November. They brought to life the humour, drama, tragedy and ultimate redemption of the plot, the rich tale of the principals’ double romances combining with the busy chorus roles of farmers, cowmen and mid-southwest belles.

Special mentions must be given to Ollie singing with a clear and charismatic tenor voice mixed with sinister intent in the darker moment of manipulation, Solly for his portrayal of the demonized outsider with his fine bass baritone, Mimi as the flashily opportunistic but comically outwitted peddlar, and Becca, her fine soprano voice showing both passion and tender fragility as she navigated the difficult choices facing her.

Such was the depth of talent, 3 principal roles were double-cast, enabling Alice and Eli as the matriarchal aunt, Jemima and Lucy as the incorrigible flirt, and Ben and Roman as loveably gormless romantic, to alternate nights in their respective roles.

Fine costumes, a complex battery of props (from saddles and hampers to ropes and playing cards), and intricate chorus choreography worked out alongside delightful 3 and 4-part harmony chorus singing, combined with the orchestral score performed by a 14-piece band (including 7 pupils) to delight the audiences.