Belhaven Drama in the Spotlight
The Autumn Term of 2025 has seen a major development in Drama at Belhaven, with Drama lessons now permanently based in the Music School and taking place in M1. That this fantastic performance space is now shared between Music and Drama on a daily basis is a significant step forward for the Performing Arts Programme, which continues to evolve in an exciting manner, with Samba drumming lessons for all to look forward to in 2026!
Throughout the term, everyone from Form 3 down to Reception works hard towards the performances that took place in the week of Friday 28 November – Friday 5 December, starting and ending with our gaze firmly heavenward as Form 5 gave us ‘The Planets’ and the Pre-Prep followed the star to Bethlehem.
Form 5 presented a theatrical adaptation of Holst’s ‘Planets’ and, despite half of a planet being missing (sick) on the day, this was a very successful musical and dramatic performance from the youngest Form in the Prep School. When asked what they enjoyed most about the performance, they said that they loved their costumes, singing the Coldplay song ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ (Ralph); being in front of a large audience (Rufus); sitting on the Red Stairs with a great view (Tessa); finishing their scenes (Eliza) and performing in front of friends and family (Archie D). Fergus wanted me to send a big thank you to Mrs. McGrath.
Form 4 performed Mrs. McGrath’s ‘Christmas Store’, having spent much of the previous week getting used to their incredibly effective but physically restrictive cardboard costumes in the Front Hall! In this story, different groups – Christmas trees, decorations, toys and presents – vie for the attention and approval of the dastardly store manager. His control of the decision as to which group would represent the store in the Christmas window led to much introspection as to the purpose of the different groups and allowed this creatively-minded year group to show their talent for solo and ensemble singing, as well as comedy.
Form 3’s performance of ‘Archie Dobson’s War’ represented a significant change in mood, following the story of young Archie and his desire to join his cousin in signing up to go to the Western Front in 1914. Knowing the tragic reality increased the audience’s understanding of the dramatic arc of this powerful piece of writing, brought to life with great energy and understanding by a group of very talented performers. There were some genuinely moving individual moments in this piece which also contained many effective ensemble moments, both spoken and sung.
The Pre-Prep Nativity was held on Friday 5 December. Gone are the days of this event taking place in the Front Hall – with four year groups now involved and demand for tickets soaring, we are now wedded to the Sports Hall. Rehearsals moved onto the stage for the final four days of preparation and costumes started to bring ‘Little Angel Gets his Wings’ to life. Thanks to the PTFA, we now have a wonderful new sound system, with roving microphones and reliable speakers, and they amplified a brilliant performance from these little actors!
There were many, many highlights – I thought that the camels and stars were particularly excellent and the finger clicking that accompanied one of the songs was expertly executed – but there is no doubt that the ‘Wow’ moments were all musical. The ambition of the ensemble pieces, with several different sections working in perfect harmony and an astonishing range of competent soloists (a couple of whom were standing in for friends who were sadly ill on the day) showed just what a high level of attainment can be achieved with brilliant teaching and encouragement. Well done to all in the Pre-Prep, staff and children, but particular thanks to Miss Birrell and Miss Lloyd for creating such a wonderful ensemble.
There is clearly much dramatic talent in these year groups and we are looking forward to seeing that develop as they move up through the school. Forms 1 and 2 have already started their work on an adapted performance of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ at the end of the Spring Term – please put 7pm, Thursday 19 March in your diaries!
