2019 Prospectus CN_Prospectus_LowRes | Page 22

22 PERFORMANCE ARTS Students from Performing Arts, Drama, Dance and Musical Theatre contribute to a packed programme of productions, which this year has included a Christmas pantomime, original devised work, several modern classics, a range of contemporary plays for Drama practical exams and a number of Dance Performance evenings. There were several visits to the theatre to see productions which included The Little Match Girl and Other Happier Tales, Guys and Dolls, Ghost Dances and Just So . This year students from Drama, Dance and Performing Arts also enjoyed the opportunity to work with visiting experts on areas such as choreography, devising plays, Estill voice training, musical theatre, film and TV. All Performing Arts students were able to showcase their considerable talents in the spectacular musical at the Charter Theatre. The original production, Flowers of Manhattan, was written by one of our resident Performing Arts Teachers, Lee Johnson, and was an extravaganza of singing, dancing and acting that was well received by audiences over the course of three performances. DANCE ACADEMY Our Dance Academy, Newmanoeuvres, is a Contemporary Dance performance company for talented College dancers, entry is via audition. Students receive additional dance training alongside their Sixth Form studies; they are involved in technique classes, choreographic sessions and performance rehearsals. Newmanoeuvres have had a busy and successful year. In the spring term, they were invited to perform in Flowers of Manhattan, the spectacular College musical at The Charter Theatre, Preston. At the end of the year the Academy were selected to perform their piece ‘What’s with the Banana, Andy?” at ‘Big Up North’ Dance Festival at The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster. As part of the company’s enrichment, they have also taken part in various workshops including a Hofesh Shechter style workshop, Indian Dance workshop and Belly Dancing. The Academy have also created dances for College events such as performances for Open Days and liturgical dance for the Advent and Lenten Vigils. MUSIC ACADEMY The Music Academy at Cardinal Newman offers students the chance to become involved in a range of Music enrichment opportunities alongside their studies, whether they are studying for an A Level in Music or not. Being a part of an ensemble is what being a musician is all about. Apart from meeting new people and making new friends, ensemble playing gives you regular structured rehearsals and performance opportunities. You will make far more progress as a musician and have fun doing it. As part of the Academy, you are able to join the Orchestra, Choir and the Big Band. You need as much varied experience as possible if you want to make it in the Music industry, and there are so many other ways to get involved with Music at College. So if you love music, why not get involved in our concerts, Open Mic night, Band Night, or simply help out at one of the many events with technical support! Cardinal Newman College has a rich and varied history when it comes to performance, with a vibrant and innovative department 23