30 students from ‘Teign School’ got a chance to experience a flavour of life in the performing arts industry by taking part in a week of workshops and activities called ‘Under the Spotlight.’  Fay Churchill (Head of Drama & Music) organised the event : -

 

‘It has been a fantastic week where students and staff have not only learnt a range of new skills but it has also been brilliant fun.’ (Fay Churchill)

 

The week started with choreographer ‘Abbie Cowell’ leading the students through a challenging ‘Street Dance’ workshop culminating in a performance to the ‘Pussy Cat Dolls’ track ‘Hush Hush’.

 

The following day students were treated to a ‘Musical Theatre’ workshop led by Bjorn Lonngren who has recently returned from performing in the hit musical ‘We Will Rock You’ all over Europe.  The workshop looked at routines from ‘We Will Rock You’ and ‘Hairspray’ as well as Bjorn treating the students to insights and images from his life as a professional performer.

 

‘My favourite part of the week was the Musical Theatre workshop.  It was fun to learn different styles of dance and to work with a professional dancer’ (Zoe Adams, Year 9)

 

Behind the scenes input came from Hayley Spicer a Professional Theatre Designer and Makeup Artist.  She gave a series of fascinating lectures on ‘Stage Makeup’ including ageing, fantasy makeup, prosthetics, wounds and injuries.  The students were given the chance to try out the theory by pairing up and making over their friends with stunning results.

 

‘I really liked making the cuts and scars with wax and fake blood’ (Ellie Corben, Year 9)

 

The final day consisted of a ‘Circus Skills’ workshop by Jolly Joe.  The students were given the chance to try their hand at stilt walking, juggling, plate spinning, diablo and much more.  The workshop ended with students performing their own circus routines to the rest of the group.