Wealden Times | WT265 | June 2024 | Education Supplement inside

SLive at the Coliseum
Benenden School perform historic first at the London
Coliseum
Benenden School recently made history twice – not only
being the first school to ever perform at the London
Coliseum, but also putting on the first ever production of
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on the
iconic Coliseum stage.
As part of the school’s centenary celebrations, students
dazzled audiences with their interpretation of the hit musical
made famous by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sir Tim Rice –
certainly rising to the challenge of performing in London’s
largest theatre in London’s West End. Students were no
doubt encouraged by the presence of Roger Watson, the
show’s original producer, in the audience. This was
alongside a heartfelt message written by Sir Tim Rice,
which featured in the production’s programme.
Sir Tim Rice said: “I’m delighted,
and frankly amazed, that
Benenden are to
perform Joseph
at the London
Young at Art
Claremont School reveal how they unlock
creativity and allow the inner artist to flourish
The Priceless Education Supplement sponsored by
Coliseum and I’m very grateful that they want to do this.
Joseph was written in 1968 and I still find it extraordinary
that so many theatrical presentations from schools to
Broadway keep returning to the show.” This once-in-ageneration
performance was made possible by Benenden’s
partnership with the English National Opera, allowing the
production to go ahead in a venue usually not available to
schools. Benenden’s partnership with ENO extends beyond
the Coliseum performance, however, as Benenden continues
to partner with the organisation to deliver opera workshops
in partner prep and primary schools – in an initiative aimed
at introducing new audiences to opera.
Samantha Price, Headmistress said: “The performance at the
historic London Coliseum was certainly a highlight of our
centenary celebrations and one that we will always cherish.
I would like to thank the very many people that made
this performance possible, from the cast and crew to those
‘behind the scenes’ – your work is hugely appreciated and
will have created memories that will last a lifetime. Joseph
and his Technicolor Dreamcoat is a production that
resonates with the universal themes of resilience,
dreams and the power of unity – certainly
a fitting choice to reflect the ethos of
Benenden School.”
benenden.school
At Claremont School, every student is embraced as an artist
with a need for creative expression.
In Drama, students dive deep into creative understanding
through theatre production and performance opportunities.
From festivals to workshops, drama becomes an integral part
of school life. Music is at the heart of Claremont, with students
encouraged to explore their musical talents through vibrant
performances in dedicated spaces. From choirs to ensembles,
students find their rhythm in a nurturing environment that
supports their journey towards local festivals and beyond.
The Art and Photography departments ignite creativity by
equipping students with skills that fuel their imaginations and
artistic potential. Through visual literacy and cross-curricular
connections, students are immersed in a world of artistic
exploration. In the vibrant world of creative arts at Claremont
Senior School, state-of-the-art facilities provide students with
ideal spaces to explore their passions. Expert teachers lead
engaging co-curricular programmes, encouraging students to
aim high, experiment and take risks in a safe and supportive
learning environment where everyone can shine.
As a double national award-winning school for Performing
Arts, Claremont offers exciting opportunities for ambitious
students looking to pursue careers in drama, music or dance.
Our performers regularly achieve LAMDA Distinctions, with
an imaginative and dynamic curriculum that gives students
many opportunities to perform, write, choreograph, compose
and produce their own original pieces of theatre.
With outstanding student outcomes and extensive
co-curricular programmes supported by excellent facilities and
international opportunities—Claremont is where creativity
thrives. admissions.claremontschool.co.uk/performing-arts
87
From the Art
News about
impressive
productions and art
provision
priceless-magazines.com