Many of our students at Northgate have interests outside of school whether this be in sport, music, drama, dance, or uniformed organisations. Here we find out from Lauren, Year 8, what she got up to over the Easter holiday.
Lauren attended a course at the Open in Norwich called ‘West End Experience’. It is run in April and October by Jo Chandler, wife of Rob Chandler, radio presenter. This was Lauren’s fourth time attending. It runs from Monday to Friday, with the first 4 days having a different West End performer working with them. They teach you the exact same choreography, scenes and harmonies that are being performed on the most famous stages in the West End and over the world. The course gave Lauren the opportunity to train with professional choreographers, musical directors, dance captains and actors from some of the top shows. They produce drama pieces, songs and dances all ready for the showcase on the Friday, performed in front of hundreds.
Lauren is also part of a Drama group outside of school and has put on 2 shows at the Cambridge Junction with some drama and singing. She has also performed solos in these shows. Already at school Lauren has been involved in our Winter and Spring Showcases, demonstrating her acting skills with the Drama group.
Miss Theobald also caught up with Lauren to ask a few questions about the experience.
Why did you want to get involved?
I like acting, singing and dancing and had taken part before. The week gives the opportunity to do all three of these things. I definitely want to do it again in October.
What were the workshops like?
There were workshops where we practiced the dances and worked with professional choreographers as well as musical directors who helped us to rehearse the songs and harmonies for the showcase. We also filmed some mini trailers.
What did you enjoy the most?
I enjoyed meeting other people and working with actors from top shows in the West End. This year there were people who are currently performing in Hamilton, Blood Brothers, Annie and more.
Is this something you might want to pursue later on in life?
Yes, perhaps even performing in the West End one day. It has also made me really want to go and see the production of Hamilton.
