It has certainly been an action-packed start to the new term for our Prep and Senior Drama Departments!

At King's Ely Prep, auditions have been held for our two productions happening this year - Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Stand Up, Speak Out.

'Stand Up, Speak Out' is our 'Theatre in Education' project, which as ever, will be performed both here at King's and taken on tour to local primary schools from November 23rd-27th. The production involves Years 7 and 8 pupils, and is a joint initiative between Drama and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education. This year's project is being led by Miss Demi Teager and Mrs Olivia Petherick.

Pupils in Years 5 to 8 auditioned for 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child', and we have a fantastic cast of 69 pupils, who will be performing in four shows from February 4th-6th 2027. Mrs Emily Chadwick is Director. More information will be released towards the end of the Michaelmas Term for those who are interested in a backstage role.

Kudos to all Prep pupils who have auditioned over the last fortnight - we cannot wait to see both shows start to take shape over the coming weeks!

At King's Ely Senior, auditions have been held for Sister Act and the stellar cast of students in Years 9-13 has been revealed. Rehearsals are in full swing ahead of the production in the Hayward Theatre from December 10th-12th.

Our Year 10 GCSE Drama students have been to see Blood Brothers at the Arts Theatre Cambridge. This was an invaluable trip as they are currently studying the play as a set text for their future written exam.

Miss Teager, Teacher of Drama, said: "The students thoroughly enjoyed the show and it prompted some great discussions on the way home. They will now be able to draw upon this experience when looking at exam questions."

Our A-Level Drama students have also had a brilliant co-curricular opportunity - visiting London to see Simon Stone’s bold and contemporary interpretation of The Oresteia at Bridge Theatre.

Mrs Jane Parker, Director of Drama at King's Ely Senior, said: "Based on the Ancient Greek story of the same name, Stone’s version brings the tale firmly into the modern world, exploring themes of family, love, betrayal, grief, and revenge. The production was gripping from the outset, offering our students a powerful example of how a classical story can be completely re-imagined for a contemporary audience.

"For our Sixth Form students, the visit was a fantastic opportunity to see professional theatre outside the classroom and gain inspiration for their own Drama work. Watching such an ambitious production also sparked plenty of discussion about the story, performances, and the many unexpected twists and turns of Stone’s interpretation.

"It was a brilliant afternoon of theatre and a wonderful opportunity for our Years 12 and 13 students to experience one of London’s leading theatrical venues. We were incredibly proud of their enthusiasm, engagement, and excellent behaviour throughout the trip."

Old Elean, Finlay Beeton, has also popped into the Drama Department for a Q&A session with students about his time at King's, Drama School endeavours, and his most recent achievement of securing a place at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London!

Miss Teager said: "Students asked some really thoughtful questions and it was clear that Finlay's experience was invaluable to hear, particularly for some of our Year 13 students who are now looking into Drama Schools. It was lovely to catch up with Finlay, and to hear how King's made a huge impact in helping him get to where he is now. He is a great role model for our students, and we wish him all the best at Drama School."

Tickets and more information about all of our upcoming productions will be available on the Box Office soon!