BEHIND the Curtain
At Crofton House , plays involve far more than the student actors ; they are supported by a crew of strong student leaders in the Senior School . With oversight and direction from staff , students are encouraged to bring the vision of each production to life as a community . This year , we celebrate the teamwork that brought the Grade 10 – 12 production of Shakespeare in Love to life .
THE CAST
The show consisted of over 20 actors . Together , they rehearsed from November to March to build Shakespeare ’ s world .
Sophie , who played Viola de Lesseps , previously acted in the Grade 8 – 9 productions . This was her first year performing in the Grade 10 – 12 show . “ I remember watching the big shows like Mamma Mia . They were so impressive and amazing to watch . I remember sitting there in the younger grades and wanting to do that ,” she said .
For Grade 12 student Lucy , who played Queen Elizabeth I and the nurse , this was her CHS theatrical debut and her first-ever play . Outside CHS , she has been heavily involved in musical theatre . She said , “ After seeing the play turn out , and having seen the fight scene and seeing our set and everything , I ’ ve realized that plays can be just as fun as a musical !”
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Working with Director Ms van Rijn , Teacher , Arts and Applied Design Skills & Technologies , Senior School , was Assistant Director and Grade 11 student Annabel .
Annabel supported the live shows and helped plan and oversee unique rehearsal opportunities , including a safe brawl portrayal and sword fighting with Vancouver Island University ’ s Leon Potter , and practice runs with a unique star : a furry friend , Boris the dog .
“ Everyone ’ s humorous and creative . They have their own quirks , which I love ,” Annabel said of the cast . “ I think they are very empathetic , and they ’ ve really got each other ’ s backs .”
THE STAGE MANAGERS
Stage managers are essential to seamless performances . A talented duo managed Shakespeare in Love : Grade 12 students Jacqueline and Katie , with oversight from Ms van Rijn .
Jacqueline managed lighting and tech with support from other student technicians . This was her third year contributing to the productions and her first in the senior stage management role . She has been a member of the tech crew since Grade 8 and was the Club Captain in Grade 11 . Throughout Grade 12 , she has been the Prefect of Technology .
“ It ’ s learning to work with first-time actors and with more experienced actors ,” she said of her role . “ How can we further their skills and strengthen the show as well ?”
While Ms Stewart , Facilitator , Design Thinking , Senior School , assembled costumes and props , Katie managed the set and cast backstage during the live performances . In previous years , Katie acted in the productions .
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