A group of drama and dance students from Carol Kristian Theatre School had their first experience of performing on a West End stage last month when they took part in Young Performers production putting on scenes from musicals Annie and Oliver at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London’s Haymarket. The theatre, home to Phantom of the Opera, seats over 1000 and it was the scale of the vast auditorium that excited the youngsters who found the experience very different from treading the boards at Chorleywood Memorial Hall
“I loved working on a West end stage and can’t wait to do it again,” says 14 year old Josh Patel
“Acting has given me confidence” adds 9 year old Alexandra Frater from Russell School, “ I loved it how we were all together on the big stage “
“Taking part in Young Performers was a great chance to do what I love as a major milestone in front of the biggest crowd ever.” adds Natasha Rowe. ”Acting has taken me to a place where I can be me and just fly!”
“They enjoy doing any production’ says CKTS Director Josh Sills. “but they couldn’t believe the scale of HM Theatre, there was great excitement, and a real buzz being backstage at such an iconic theatre.
“Performing is a skill that stays with you in any walk of life” adds Josh, “It’s only when you get older you realise how useful it is… it’s brilliant groundwork for any career, builds confidence for giving presentations and prepares people for working in groups. Past CKTS student Amy Smith who works in Events Management, commented recently how it has helped her to communicate with clients and colleagues. At CKTS we have a lot of fun but it’s much more than a club, we think of it as dedicated training for theatre arts and media and ultimately for life.”
Carol Kristian Theatre School, www.cktheatreschool.co.uk
