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Posted on July 19th 2022
Annie Jr - School Production - Review and Pictures!
It has been three years since the last school play in Harris Bermondsey. This is a long time by anyone’s standards, but within a school it feels like a lifetime.
You could be forgiven for thinking that this might in some way be reflected in the performance; lines might be forgotten, dance routines might prove overly complex, even that stage fright might get the better of the performers.
I am pleased to report that none of these things happened. From the moment the conductor’s baton came down to begin the overture, to the glorious final curtain call, Sarah Harvey’s cast delivered a polished, professional, and practically flawless performance of Annie Jr.
A polished, professional, and practically flawless performance of Annie Jr."
Slick dialogue was accompanied by superb singing, all ably supported by Tom Creasey’s marvellous pit band. Throughout each performance this accomplished cast drew whoops and cheers from a delighted audience, who were transported from the Firman Hall to 1930s New York.
Congratulations must go to all the musicians involved for maintaining a stellar level throughout all outings; the future looks dazzlingly bright for many young members of the band.
Every line of the play was delivered with crystal-clear intention and confidence."
As any actor knows, learning the lines to play a part is just the start of the acting process. Each and every actor had clearly worked hard to perfect their accent, and every line of the play was delivered with crystal-clear intention and confidence.
What was even better to see was the interactions and chemistry between members of the cast onstage. Great moments of comedy sat alongside moments of high emotion, not to mention some very convincing performances of the more evil characters. The gaggle of orphans were quite simply superb, bringing an infectious energy and magnetism to proceedings.
In some ways, plays are like swans; serene and graceful, they glide across the surface of the stage. Of course, beneath the waterline, backstage, legs work furiously to propel and sustain this magnificence. In this instance, the stage crew were the legs. Invisible to the audience, yet no less important than the actors on stage. We owe a huge debt to all those involved, who enabled such a wonderful experience for audience and cast alike, particularly the Year 10 students who so ably took on the technical duties.
Of course, the biggest thanks must go to Sarah Harvey. After three disrupted and challenging years, the anticipation for Annie Jr was huge, and under Sarah’s tireless direction, the play was a stunning success. It brought joy both to those watching it, and performing in it, and reminded us all of the power of live performance.
James Picton-Turbervill, Teacher of English
All photography by Noor, Year 9, photography club student, who photographed and edited all the photos for the show. Well done Noor, outstanding work!
