End of Term Music and Drama Report
As this second term comes to an end, this, without doubt, has been a busy and successful term and with further events taking place over the Easter holidays, the term is not over yet for some musicians.
The term started with a bang having received news just before the Christmas Holidays that the Choir had qualified for the Barnardo’s national youth choir of the year finals. Rehearsals started immediately and the choir took on a completely new song called Never Let Go by Rob Dietz which they performed in Chapel just a few weeks back. Their efforts at the competition this year sadly did not see us pick up a prize but all involved can be hugely proud. There were lots of extra rehearsals which the choir showed great commitment to. Their efforts were rewarded a little bit when the composer of the piece sent them a personalised well done message video, which was a lovely touch.
Whilst the choir were preparing for Symphony Hall, during January and the start of February, rehearsals for the musical theatre showcase were still in full swing. These culminated in four nights at the start of February that were tremendous. The smiles on faces at the end of the final number ‘We Go Together’ from Grease, will be remembered for years to come. This ‘full scale production’ followed on from Swallows and Amazons which was at least a mini musical, if not a full blown one! Huge congratulations and thanks to those pupils who ended up doing both and, for some, Barnardo’s as well.
The other major event that has happened was the Jazz night last Friday, where the Jazz band were joined by new guests Walsall Jazz Orchestra. It came at what was the end of an incredibly busy week for some band members (and they still had D of E and Open Day to do!) so it was a first class effort in front of a capacity crowd. Thanks not only go to the Jazz Band but the the staff and Upper Sixth who did such a brilliant job looking after the audience who enjoyed table service.
As ever there have been rounds of Wrekin Young Musician with the Woodwind and Vocal Rounds happening this term, with more to come as soon as we return and the grand final awaiting in July. Other events have also happened including various recitals from visiting musicians and we saw the Lancaster musicians doing a great job at Lancaster Arts evening. This included a performance from a group that performed at Minsterley Eistedfodd. Thanks to Miss Holder, who once again organised and rehearsed musicians from all years to represent the school at this prestigious event.
The effort from Wrekin Musicians this year so far has, as ever, been magnificent. A truly packed programme, including the aforementioned two musicals has run alongside competing at a national level on three fronts and all the rehearsal that entails. On that note, as previously mentioned, the term is not over for approximately 50 musicians as both the Jazz and Concert Bands have the National Finals to play at on April 13th in Manchester. To have qualified for the fifth consecutive year with the Jazz Band and for the fourth time with the Concert Band is a success in itself. However, both bands have their sights set high and we wish them well in their pursuit of national success.
Individual success has also been forthcoming this term and a huge well done to all the pupils who took instrumental exams on Monday. A 100% pass rate is fantastic, with lots of distinctions and merits as well.
On the charities front after sending a cheque for over £2000 to the Motor Neurone Disease association following the St Chad’s Charity concert, the department’s charity work continues next term with two concerts on our return that will again have charities at their heart.
Finally congratulations to you, the whole school, for your effort in the whole school music events such as the Cong Cup where you have provided a couple of legendary congs this term, alongside some very fine singing in chapel.
Another busy term for drama at home and away. This term saw Wrekin’s continued participation at the Minsterley Eisteddfod. Under the expert tutelage of Miss Holder, the ‘Wrekin Songbirds’ earned a very high merit, not to mention high praise from the adjudicators. Dolly and Amelia earned second place for their tense duologue about two competing sisters, and Dolly won first prize in the under 18s recitation, along with the special award for Outstanding Child Elocutionist. Maria wowed audiences on the violin in the Open Instrumental. All in all, Wrekinians impressed again, and the group are already planning their pieces for March 2026!
This year’s Lancaster Arts showcase served up a truncated version of Willy Russell’s much-loved comedy ‘Our Day Out’ - a play which tells the story of Mrs Kay’s ‘progress class’, who take a trip to Conway Castle but stop off at the zoo on the way! Chaos ensues when they are caught attempting to drive away with some of the animals on board! A valiant performance from the Second Form with Charlie and Eliza starring as the teachers in charge of this motley crew. Their pupils (and the bear) were played with real energy by those in the supporting cast. Thanks too to Miss Evans and Mr Winterton for their accomplished performances as Miss Prior and the Zookeeper.
This year’s senior play - ‘A Doll’s House’ - showcased some of Wrekin’s dramatic talent at its best. Kirsty shone in the title role as Nora Helmer - the ‘doll’ of her husband - Torval (played sensitively by Jake). Both worked tirelessly on the stage to highlight the complex power dynamics between this couple and the difficulties faced by women in such a repressive society. Liv, Lois, Carolina, Katy and Tsemaye delivered confident performances in the supporting roles, adding further layers to the unfolding tragedy. Congratulations to Mrs Milton, Mrs Pragg, and everyone who played a part in this year’s senior play!
We couldn’t stage such fantastic productions without the support of all those who work tirelessly backstage to support us. Thank you to Mr Phillips, Miss Evans, Miss Jagger, Ms Kotas, and all of you who have played your part behind the scenes, not least Will and Mylo for their efforts in providing the technical support for all of the above.
