HOUSE ACTIVITIES//
HOUSE DRAMA FESTIVAL
Pupils rose to the challenge of devising
and presenting shows on the theme of
The Unexpected for this year’s House
Drama Festival, which entertained
audiences over two evenings.
Led by Sixth Formers, each of the
four Houses worked across the year
groups to put together a performance
which combined fresh interpretation
with engaging delivery. More than 200
pupils took part and impressed with
their enthusiasm and professionalism.
Dolman House presented A Series of
Unfortunate Events directed by Guy Prew
and Jessie Morgan. Using shadows and
the wild, maniacal lead of James Burton
as Olaf, the children moved from threat
to worse threat. Could they survive?
From Hutton, Aladdin directed by Peter
Massey included splendid performances
by Tom McDowell in the lead and
Ollie Spink as the evil Jafar. The Disney
script was given a fresh and colourful
twist, complete with carpets and a super
ensemble.
From Wilberforce, 101 Dalmatians
was directed by Florence Colbeck and
Chloe Asquith. It was notable for its
frantic comedy and bizarre moments,
with the clever twist of putting false ears
on the audience to portray 101 dogs.
Ben Wilkinson in red high heels stole
the show as Cruella and won the Best
Actor prize.
Gruggen performed Beauty and the
Beast directed by Ellie Cooper and
team. It was a serious take on the
tale, with live music and stand-out
performances by Harry Chacksfield as
Maurice, Freddie Griggs as D’Arque
and Freya Stewart and Max Lee as the
leads.
The festival was Judged by Ursula Clark
and puppeteer Terry Tooby, who both
36
THE POCKLINGTONIAN
performed in the York Mystery Plays
recently. Terry is a puppeteer, Ursula
the mother of OPs. They declared
Gruggen as winners of this year’s House
Drama Trophy.
Alan Heaven, Head of Drama, said:
“This year’s House Drama Festival was
notable for performances which were full
of fun and energy. It also reflected the huge
amount of talent among the pupils who took
part. Well done to all involved.”
Top: Max Lee (the Beast) and
Freya Stewart (Belle) performing
a scene from Gruggen’s winning
entry, Beauty and the Beast.
Middle right: Wilberforce with
Best actor (Ben Wilkinson)
Right: Hutton’s Aladdin