It’s not strictly a Christmas show but according to its Director, Drama teacher Ms Natalie Ibbett, this term’s production of The Railway Children has many of the ingredients we all crave from a show in this season of the year. ‘It’s a timeless feel-good, family story with love and generosity of spirit at its heart,’ she says.
Rehearsal photographs by Daisy Mackay
The play’s big cast – which is drawn from year groups 8 to 13 (Years 4-9) – enhanced its appeal for Ms Ibbett. ‘We want to give as many pupils as possible at Harrodian the chance to take part,’ she says. ‘There were 120 children vying for 24 parts when we auditioned at the start of term.’
The children are so enthusiastic. And working on a play always seems to bring people together from different age groups
Natalie Ibbett, Harrodian Drama teacher
Those who made the cut have already been through two hard-working months of rehearsals but, according to Ms Ibbett they are still bursting with energy. ‘The children are so enthusiastic. And working on a play always seems to bring people together from different age groups,’ she says. ‘For example, we cast two girls – Mireia from the 8s and Grace from the 9s – in roles as sisters. Two months ago, they hardly knew each other and now they really do seem as close as real sisters.’
So what can we expect from the production when it plays on November 28th and 29th in the School Theatre? Ms Ibbett promises a great set designed by Harrodian Head of Drama Mr Glen (no detail spoilers here!), dramatic lighting by Theatre Technician, Ed Scragg and an ‘evening that’s uplifting and heartwarming’. We can’t wait.
Tickets will be available from Reception from 8th November