Release Date: 16/05/2008
Students from St Mary’s University College, Twickenham, will perform an open air production in the stunning grounds of Ham House next week, supported by Richmond Council’s Dramatic Edge initiative.
In a partnership project drama students received Council funding and worked with pupils from seven local primary schools to write and develop a new work called Helios. It will be staged on Thursday 22 May when an audience of up to 400 will be taken on a theatrical journey through the grounds of the National Trust property.
The schoolchildren will enjoy an exclusive afternoon show before a public performance at 5pm. The play tells the tale of a banished princess who comes of age and returns to unite her kingdom.
Since 2005 Dramatic Edge has encouraged hundreds of young people from local maintained and independent schools to get involved in drama.
Cllr John Coombs, Cabinet Member for Youth, Culture and Leisure on Richmond Council, said:
”I am delighted that Dramatic Edge has been able to work in partnership with the students at St Mary’s University College.
“Many of them will be the actors, directors and technicians of the future and it is thrilling that we can support them as they near the end of the studies. I hope the skills they have learned throughout this project can be transferred into their careers.
“It has also been an excellent experience for the schoolchildren involved. Dramatic Edge was set up to encourage more young people to take part in drama, which in turn boosts their self-esteem, confidence and social skills.
“Their input has been central to the play’s development. It promises to be a spectacular event and I urge people to book their ticket.”
Amy Lovell is one of the students involved in the Drama in the Community project. She said:
“Dramatic Edge has played a significant part, helping us financially and offering support and advice when needed.
“The seven schools have also been hugely supportive taking part in workshops and telling us what they would like to see in the performances.
“We have all gained so much working on this project and learned new skills that will benefit us greatly in the future.”
The seven participating primary schools are St Mary’s and St Peter’s Primary, Teddington; St Richard’s with St Andrew’s Primary, Ham; Heathfield School, Twickenham; Lady Eleanor Hollis School, Hampton; Hampton Junior School; Trafalgar School, Twickenham; and Holy Trinity Primary in Richmond.
To find out more or book tickets please contact The Drama in The Community office on 020 8240 4000 or email dramainthecommunity@live.co.uk