Spectacular Success of FAME Junior the Musical 

2nd July 2024Sarah Hall

Pupils from Newminster and Chantry schools dazzled audiences with their production of FAME Junior the Musical this summer term. The performances, held on Tuesday 25th, Wednesday 26th, and Thursday 27th June 2024, showcased the extraordinary talents of around 200 students from both schools. Additionally, past pupils from Newminster and Chantry generously contributed their skills in tech, backstage, and front of house support.

The collaborative effort extended beyond the stage, with Arts Award students designing and creating a stunning backdrop, while other pupils crafted props and all performers sourced their own 80s costumes. The choreography, led by the exceptional Kelly Coccalis, brought the production to life with incredible dancing that left the audience in awe.

Audience members were full of praise for the show:

  • “It was truly amazing, what talented pupils you have and also such amazing creative vision.”
  • “On a beautiful sunny evening, I thoroughly enjoyed Newminster/Chantry School’s rendition of ‘FAME’. You could feel the excitement in the air and it was impossible to come away without humming that famous tune. The children were superb—the happiness that shone from their eyes was infectious. Well done to the principals and chorus; you were all amazing.”

The enthusiasm and dedication of everyone involved created an unforgettable experience that resonated with all who attended. The performances were a testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion of the students, staff, and supporters. Congratulations to everyone for making FAME a spectacular success.

Competitions for young singers, musicians and performance poets at Rothbury Traditional Music Festival on Saturday 13th July 2024

19th June 2024Sarah Hall
Online registration closes on 29th June 2024!
There may be some spaces for entries on the day but this cannot be guaranteed and some categories are already close to being full.
Find links to entry forms and everything else you need to know about entering here including suggested poems for the Dialect Poetry category.
The festival has lots more to offer families over the weekend of 12th-14th July:
  • Free outdoor stage on Saturday 13th
  • Free ceilidh on Sunday 14th
  • Various other low cost events.
Find out more at www.rothburymusicfestival.co.uk and on social media
Buy tickets for ticketed concerts online or at Tully’s on Rothbury High Street.
 
We look forward to seeing you and your family at Rothbury Traditional Music Festival.
Please get back in touch with using the above email address if you have any questions.
From Aifionn Evans on behalf of Rothbury Traditional Music Festival

Sing North East

17th June 2024Sarah Hall

We are delighted to share details with you of a fun Summer Vocal Day organised by National Youth Choir. Details can be found the flyer below.

On the 20th of July 2024 from 10am to 4pm at Newcastle University, the National Youth Choir would like to invite pupils in Year groups 6 through to Year 9 with a love of singing, a chance to join in a fun Summer Vocal Day. It is an opportunity for pupils to elevate their vocal skills, explore their creativity and meet other young singers.
For more information, visit their website at https://www.nationalyouthchoir.org.uk/sing-north-east

Arts Bridging Generations through the Arts

4th June 2024Sarah Hall

Our Bronze Award group has found a beautiful way to connect different generations through the arts by performing for residents at local care homes in our local community. These performances create a unique space where young and old can connect, bringing joy and appreciation to all involved. Our latest performance at Foxton Court Care Home in May 2024 was a shining example of this intergenerational connection.

Preparation and Rehearsal

Pupils in the Bronze Arts Award group put in a lot of effort to prepare a performance that included singing, dancing, and playing instruments. Their dedication was evident in the weekly arts award sessions at school where they rehearsed diligently. They carefully curated a repertoire to ensure the residents would enjoy familiar songs and pieces, hoping to evoke happy and special memories.

The Day of the Performance

As the residents gathered and the pupils set up for their performance, there was a palpable buzz of anticipation in the air. The moment the pupils began to perform, smiles lit up the faces of the residents. It was heartwarming to see them thoroughly enjoying the performance, clapping and singing along.

Bringing the Performance to Bed Bound Residents

Understanding that some residents were bedridden and unable to come to the lounge, the pupils took their performance to individual rooms. This provided a beautiful, personal experience where the residents could listen to the young musicians play instruments right by their bedside.

Post-Performance Interaction

After the performance, the care home provided drinks and snacks for the pupils. This created a perfect opportunity for the residents to interact with the young performers. The exchange was filled with laughter, stories, and a genuine connection that bridged the generational gap through a mutual love of the arts.

A Lasting Connection

The experience didn’t end there. When we returned to school, the children wrote heartfelt letters to the residents, expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to perform. This act of kindness was reciprocated as the Arts Award pupils were featured in the home’s newsletter, and the residents are planning to write back to the pupils.

These intergenerational performances are more than just a chance to showcase artistic talents; they are a way to build community, create lasting memories, and bridge the gap between generations. The joy and appreciation shared by both the pupils and the residents at Foxton Court Care Home are a testament to the power of the arts in bringing people together.