Performing Arts - Matilda Jr The Musical

In February 2023, the curtains opened to the most challenging stage production Abbey Gate College has ever attempted – Matilda Jr.

The mammoth musical was staged in the Sports Hall, but the vast space was successfully converted to a full-scale theatre for the duration of final rehearsals and the three-night run of the show itself.

Not only were students from across the College (performers from Year 5 through to the Upper 6th) in the cast, six local primary schools were also involved over the three night run. These schools (Delamere C of E Primary School, Eccleston C of E Primary School, Farndon Primary School, The Firs School, Saighton C of E Primary School and St Martin’s Academy) enjoyed special Performing Arts sessions of an hour a week per school from October, with each school receiving visits from Abbey Gate College’s specialist teaching staff.

This initiative enabled the College and external primary schools to come together as part of the Abbey Gate College community, and for the 217 primary aged pupils to have the opportunity to experience being involved in a production on such a large scale.

Aims

To enable pupils from smaller primary schools to participate in and experience a large scale production.

Background

First time event, between Abbey Gate College and six external primary schools, alongside our own infant and junior school.

Resources

Use of Performing Arts Department teaching staff, who ran hour long classes in each school on a weekly basis over the academic year, in preparation and as a follow-up. Use of Performing Arts facilities on site, for rehearsals.

Pupil Involvement

217 external pupils joined over 50 Abbey Gate College students to perform the musical.

Frequency

Three night performance run, involving two of the six schools each night.