The college production of We Will Rock You was a powerful demonstration of what young people can achieve through hard work, commitment and creativity.
Over 60 students aged between 11 and 18 took part in the production and the collaboration across year groups and departments showed what could really be achieved when we all work together. The energy on stage was electric and for many of our younger students, performing for the first time, they had the most amazing experience being amongst older cast members who supported them throughout the rehearsals and at the performances.
“Taking on the role of Galileo in “We Will Rock You” was an unforgettable experience. The teachers were endlessly supportive, and I’m incredibly proud of the entire cast. Performing such powerful and iconic songs for an audience was a real highlight.” – Oliver Jaquet Year 13 (Galileo)
There were some stand out performances from cast members, who performed with confidence to recreate Freddie’s vocal range. Powerful vocals and confident characterisation ensured the show was packed with memorable moments that will be remembered long after the curtain call.
Mr Marrows, director said:
“It was a proud moment to see the months of hard work by students come together in two fantastic performances of We Will Rock You. It really is a kind of magic when all the elements of performers, musicians, and stage crew come together and demonstrate such talent. The energy of all involved has been excellent and it was great to have such enthusiastic audiences supporting them on the night. The students involved should be very proud of what they achieved as without their hard work and dedication these productions wouldn’t be possible.”
The band were exceptional with polished performances of Queen songs and a guitar solo that had the audience out of their seats. From the opening number to Bohemian Rhapsody in the final encore the band demonstrated amazing stamina, incredible accuracy and professionalism.
“What an honour it has been to support such creative and inspirational students! From the outset it was clear that We Will Rock You would be a great success and the dedication that all students showed (learning lines, learning new songs to sing, learning 28 different pieces of music on their instrument) has just been outstanding! It is an experience I will remember for a very long time and all involved should be incredibly proud of their achievements. It has certainly made me appreciate Queen for their musical prowess and complex music writing.” James Matthews – Musical Director.
This was the first time the college has used multimedia in a production of this scale and it allowed excellent opportunities for students to try something new or demonstrate their expertise. The technical crew worked seamlessly behind the scenes to provide an immersive experience. All major technical roles were undertaken by students from stage management, to lighting and sound.
Each performance was sold out and the hall was packed with students, families, staff and members of the wider community who came together to celebrate live theatre and music. it was lovely to see so many students in the audience supporting their friends, singing along and waving their glow sticks. The warmth and energy shown by the audience gave the performers an invaluable boost of confidence and the turnout in such large numbers demonstrated the strength of community support for young people in the arts. Feedback from audience members and local theatrical experts reported: “We were all extremely impressed by the standard of the production and what a huge amount of talent there was on the stage.”
The college is immensely proud of all those who were involved in bringing We Will Rock You to the stage
.