Dream On

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The striking colour programme announced: “Town Close House Preparatory School proudly presents Dream On by Malcolm Sircom”, and indeed the School should be proud, for the production was a triumph.

I attended on Tuesday evening, the second of three packed performances. Family and friends rushed in excitedly to take their seats, before the spotlights went up on the huge stage in the Read Hall, packed with over 60 eager pupils. Their transformation from school children into nobles and fairy folk was incredible, aided by a range of beautiful costumes along with hair and make up dressed and applied with skill and artistry.

We were treated to a sumptuous musical version of Shakespeare’s classic tale portraying the events surrounding the marriage of Theseus, Duke of Athens and the Queen of the Amazons, Hippolyta. It was brought bang into the here and now by being set during preparations for the 2012 Olympics! We enjoyed watching the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of comically incompetent amateur actors, who were cruelly manipulated by the fairies who inhabit the forest in which most of the play is set.

The quality of the acting, singing and dancing was of a very high standard, quite exceptional given that the children were no older than 12 years old, and the majority younger than that. The lead actors carried out their roles with confidence and charm, ably supported by a delightful cast and chorus. Their professionalism is to be applauded, as is the dedication of many who have worked tirelessly towards this production, which entertained hundreds of us in truly inspiring style. Thank you for a wonderful show!

Audrey Jolliffe, Learning Support Specialist