“Fun, energetic, hardworking and resilient”: these are all words used to describe the cast of students who have rehearsed consistently since September to produce Darrick Wood’s most recent production. For three nights only- Tuesday 8th to Thursday 10th February- the Orpington secondary school told the globally popular story of high school romance Grease through its classic musical style.
In the current, unfamiliar situation of the world, the drama, music, and dance department of Darrick Wood collaborated ideas to create a stage musical that is equally nostalgic and exhilarating, eventually landing on the iconic 1971 play. DWS drama teacher and director of the production Ms. Iddiols-Bunclark has had plenty of experience with Grease in the past, helping to direct the production in previous years- in addition to this, the instant recognition that audiences have to musical numbers and memorable characters from the 1978 movie helped: “it’s easier with regards to the songs being known and it's an upbeat show – all of us needed this, this year!”
Due to pandemic restrictions over the past 2 years, theatre as we know it has been difficult to produce- especially in educational environments where students have worked from home, and large gatherings were out of the question. Iddiols-Bunclark identified several challenges that arose because of these restrictions: “We normally perform in November but had to move to February which means it’s a long time between auditions and the show... some cast members lose interest and drop out or they realise they cannot commit.” Another problem many schools face when producing such an event is the budget- after paying £1800 for the rights of Grease, tickets are heavily relied on to fund additional features such as costuming, set detailing and lighting. On top of the threat of cast members being forced to isolate and government restrictions constantly shifting, she states “the uncertainty of it all was our biggest challenge.”
In spite of all the setbacks and struggles endured by all cast members from directors to dancers, the six-month effort resulted in an experience nothing short of electrifying! Students of all ages are included in the creation, “getting together, and helping and supporting each other – it's very special.” Teachers involved have expressed their satisfaction of seeing otherwise timid pupils “come alive and have so much fun and build their confidence,” and take pride in their highly demanding work being appreciated by a dazzled audience every run. After watching the production for myself on closing night, I must agree with the director- “you cannot relive the feeling when a show finishes”! The combination of an action-packed conclusion and all audience members beaming with awe made the event truly inspiring.
Darrick Wood School’s annual musical may be finished for another year but be sure to anticipate the next production: as a regular spectator of previous shows such as Beauty and the Beast and Les Misérables, the experience is well worth the wait, and “you can join in and will leave with a big smile on your face!"
