'Giants'

Date: Monday 29 June 2009

This evening, the eagerly anticipated School drama production of ‘Giants’ opened with two performances at 6pm and again at 8.30pm. Mr Mark Sell, the Director of Drama and writer of the play, in addition to Miss Liz Sears, the producer of ‘Giants’ once again worked exceptionally hard with the a cast of 12 talented young people from both the Junior and Senior Schools to tell the story of how giants ‘can change your perspective, your life, the whole of you!’

The striking setting presented a heavenly hue of blue skies and white clouds; however, the audience quickly learned that this hard-hitting production was far from peaceful. The dynamics between appearance versus reality was at the heart of the dramatic tension, which moved and disturbed throughout the one hour and fifteen minute production. Tales of child abuse, domestic violence, neglect, obsession and the dark side of the pursuit of fame were juxtaposed with beautifully sung renditions of ‘Over the Rainbow’ by Fran Dowle and ‘Giants’ by Corin Vafidis. The acting was superb and emotionally- charged throughout, showcasing the best of St. Edmund’s talent. Memorable performances by Alex Denton, Fran Dowle, Carl Fryer, Tilly Glinn, Becky-Anne Gladwin, Bethany Kinch, Alice Hickey, Rayne Maney, Max Rushton, Rowan Jones and five-year old Aisha Stannard showed the dedication and hard work which went into the compelling production. Let’s not forget those working diligently behind the scenes, too, such as the Lighting Operator - William Bacon, and the Sound Operator – Laurence King, in addition to the set designers and construction team including Guy and Mark Hawkins. We will all be looking forward to more new and exciting performances from the drama department in the new academic year.

Many thanks, indeed, to Mrs Melanie Robinson for this review of what would appear to be another triumph for St Edmund's Performing Arts Department!