Scotch College

Drama Department prepares for James Forbes Academy

As we see the extraordinary James Forbes Academy being built around us, the dedicated members of the Drama Department continue to develop high standard performance work, to be enjoyed by the entire Scotch Community.

Mr Kane commenced proceedings with the introduction of some outstanding young talent in the production of Oliver Twist as the 2002 Year 7/8 play, in conjunction with PLC. Ben Andrews as Oliver gave us an insight into the life of a poor orphan in the 1830s. Accents and well presented physical characterization added to the journey among odd folk he met, including Fiona Callan as the absurd Artful Dodger, Jake Cooper playing Bill Sikes and Iona Ray as Nancy. The co-operative dynamic of the rehearsal process was evident on stage; Mr Kane and the entire cast are to be congratulated on their achievement.

This year's Middle School play is Midsummer Night's Midterm, a comical modern adaptation of the traditional Shakespearean play. We follow four students studying for their exam on A Midsummer Night's Dream. William Morton, Julian Deschepper, Anders Gamboni and William Gelling are some of the now well experienced, knowledgeable and confident cast involved in the play that features Ruyton Girls' School actresses. It will be performed at Ruyton Girls' School on August 28-31.

Mr Ritchie and a cast of nineteen boys and four girls are busily rehearsing their play, The Madness of George III, written by Alan Bennett, whose work is familiar to many stage, screen and television audiences.Robert Paoletti will be taking the role of King George and Doug Lyons will be co-starring as Dr Willis. Students from Years 11-12 are involved, with two Year 10 students having considerable roles. Of note is John Crozier-Durham playing the part of Prime Minister Pitt.

After King George falls ill, doctors prescribe the latest medicine, about which there is great conflict as to its use. King George experiences severe psychical discomfort and loses the respect of the public, as well as his mind. When he is finally restored to his original health his goal is to gain back the respect which he needs to rule as King.

This play is one not to be missed and will be performed on 21, 22 and 23 August, in the Stonnington Theatre.

Will Wilson