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Year 6 perform Peter Pan
Second star to the right and straight on ‘till morning!
Our landlubbing crew of Berkhamsted Year 6s travelled across the seven seas (aka King’s Road) last term to perform the legendary tale, Peter Pan, at the Centenary Theatre. Armed with pixie dust, two life-size puppets and Berkhamsted’s entire supply of striped shirts, our Prep leavers hooked their audience with a shining performance.
Acting in a 500-seat professional theatre is no mean feat. It was all hands-on deck to learn lines, master choreography and prepare for the big night, but Year 6 proved they weren’t lily-livered and delivered a remarrghkable show.
The Year 6 play is always a milestone moment for our leavers, showcasing the confidence and oracy that they have developed at Prep and will carry with them to Senior School. Performing with a full live band, backstage crew and professional sound and lighting, is a truly special experience for our pupils. Read on to hear first-hand from some of our Year 6 scallywags.
“I auditioned for the part of Michael. It was nerve-wracking as I wanted to impress Mrs Turnley and Miss Carr. When the parts were announced and I was given Michael I was ecstatic – really happy.
At the beginning of the rehearsals, it was tricky – we were often in the wrong places, but it got easier. The Sunday rehearsal was fun, and the lights and the live band were a big difference, but a really good difference.
My favourite part in the play was popping out through the wardrobe with Logan, as all eyes shifted to us and the audience didn’t expect it. I felt sad when it was all over, as it was so much work, but I felt good as I did my best. I would definitely play Michael again.”
- Thomas S (Michael, Act 1)
“The play gave me new opportunities to play lots of different characters, and my favourite part was Mr Darling. I didn’t audition for Mr Darling – I had auditioned for John, but as soon as I saw my script I realised it was a funny part and perfect for me.
The rehearsals boosted my confidence, and being able to watch my friends in the wings helped me to overcome my nerves on the stage. I think this year I went for it and pushed myself to get a bigger part. When I go to the Senior School I would like to get involved with the productions and carry on with drama.”
- Arthur B-M (Lamp lighter, wave and Mr Darling, Act Two)
“I loved the Lost Boys gang song and the finale song with sign language. I wear hearing aids and it was nice to have a song with sign language too. The costumes were a lot of fun. Once I put my microphone on, it felt like it was actually happening and professional. My advice for anyone else taking on a part is not to lose your head, stay calm, and there will always be other people to help you on your way.”
- Frida M (Storyteller Wendy and lost boy)
“I auditioned for Smee as I felt the character fitted my personality. When it was announced that I was Smee I was overjoyed, and I put a lot of work into being Smee. In rehearsal when you are on stage it’s a really cool experience, seeing that there is going to be an audience watching us.
On the play nights I was so nervous, but the nerves went away the second I stepped on stage. The spotlight on me made it feel like I was just performing to myself and stopped me worrying. I loved my costume, and I practised so much in it, it just like my normal everyday clothes. I hated the beard at first – it was hot and itchy, but it grew on me and now it’s my best friend.”
- Poppy O’D (Smee, Act 1 and lost boy, Act 2)
“I auditioned for Tootles by accident, but I’m glad I did! I lost my script which made it hard to learn my lines, but I did it. I felt so different on the stage performing compared to watching a show, it was much more advanced than a regular school play.
The Year 6 play is so different to the Year 4 one, it was interesting but simple. The Year 6 play was a huge step up. I was shocked how similar it was to a proper professional play that you book tickets for. It was a lot of work, but worth it! It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
- Hamdan E (Tootles)
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