Monday, December 28, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Welcome Home!
So, being a sucker for punishment, fighting the jet lag, I arrived at Northbridge High School bright and early for the 7:25 a.m. bell on Tuesday morning! I just couldn't stay away. Anxious to see my friends and students I was excited to walk through the doors, with Little Coffee Bean brownie toffee jumbo java in hand! (Really, I just did not feel like tackling the four month pile of mail that was awaiting me on the kitchen table! LOL!)
I was overwhelmed with welcome home hugs, cards and goodies from the students and my colleagues. My Alpaca snowman joined a snowman made by Micaela when she was young, on the shelf in my classroom. Photos and memorabilia all were unpacked and reset on my classroom desk. The Holes banner made it to the bulletin board and it felt as if I had never left.
It is good to be home!
Our tree was minimalist this year, as was the pile of gifts from Santa, as the energy to unpack all the Christmas decorations just was not in me. Micaela did a good job with some ribbon, bows and candy canes! Christmas shopping got completed on Christmas Eve, and Mike and I wrapped presents while enjoying some Chinese food.
The Journey Home
The journey home was relatively uneventful, despite snow in both Amsterdam and Boston, and numerous gate changes and delays, but we did arrive home on December 20th as arranged...our baggage, five out of six pieces, was another story; those did not arrive until Wednesday. Everything arrived in one piece - except my antique spode teacup and saucer - only the teacup survived; even the Christmas pudding and mistletoe, complete with berries, arrived safely.
The trees in the airport were a wonderful reminder that the Christmas season was in full swing and I treated myself to a delft ornament as featured on these trees.
The Christmas pudding was indeed delicious, accompanied by brandy butter of course; however, I don't think I boiled it long enough.
I was lucky enough to see Santa in the airport, and while he was too busy to give me a ride home, he did see to it that we arrived safely. Something I should be grateful for - since, as of the writing of this entry, the "underwear bomber" has been apprehended and thwarted in his attemtps to bring down a Northwest airlines jet after boarding in Amsterdam. We did indeed fly on a Northwest/Delta jet on our return journey.
We arrived home to snow covered runways, bitter biting wind, a fresh, white blanket of snow, very happy puppies, a clean and warm house, and of course to my favorite guy, Michael.
New England at Christmas ...it's nice to be home for the holidays.
Ta My lovelies....
Saturday, December 18th dawned with sunshine and crisp cold air in Peterchurch, England. Making my way from Jan and Ian's, parting with tearful goodbyes, I went to collect Micaela who had also celebrated her last evening with a group of friends. Her parting from Alex was especially poignant and found us both driving through Peterchurch, past Fairfield High School for the last time, and returning to Gilwern for final packing and cleaning, with tears rolling down our cheeks.
Our departure from England being emotional for many reasons. While anxious to return home for the holidays, the friends we have made here on this exchange will be especially missed; and, while leaving home in August was sad we always knew we would return and see our family and friends again - the guarantee to see all our new friends is not as firmly etched. While intentions to visit again, and invitations are open for all to come to America, the reality is most likely not probable that we will see everyone again...and that is especially sad.
On Friday evening the Fairfield High School teaching staff celebrated Christmas again, with a second party in the school dining hall. I was graciously given a coveted Alpaca scarf as a keepsake of my time in the school and was thanked by Mr. Barker for bringing a piece of American culture to the school. Knowing that I will be missed is treasured.
Earlier in the day, at the full school assembly I had been thanked again and received a Fairfield sweatshirt with my initials as a "thank you" for assisting the PE dept. during my stay, and a school calendar - featuring the many animals, insects and reptiles that grace the school grounds. The faculty also gave me a beautiful pendant of blue aqua glass from the city of Bath. I will truly treasure all these sentimental keepsakes, along with the many gifts I received from my colleagues in the English department and my students. These are items which will remain close to my heart as I reflect on all the happy moments of my time at Fairfield.
Goodbye's are never easy - and while my board was covered in well wishes and thank you's from my students - I was especially touched by the lingering Year 7 boy who was the last to leave the classroom on Friday afternoon and parted with a big hug and a Merry Christmas. As teachers, we never know when we have touched the lives of a child, influenced them for the positive or left a lasting impression - sometimes we don't find out for years, sometimes we never find out - but in the case of Fairfield High School students I think I have been privileged to have been as touched by them as they have been by me and it is a rare gift to know it in the moment.
I stood at the window of the classroom for one last time on Friday afternoon, watching the myriad of busses depart from the gate for the Christmas holiday and Micaela departing from her friends with tearful hugs and goodbyes, and I did indeed use a few tissues in the process.
One last cider at the pub with Jo & Ruth, and then off to get ready for the final evening of festivities with the Christmas party kept me busy and my mind off the final departure. With promises to continue long distance friendships and make use of modern technology like facebook and emails there really are no goodbye's .....just....
Ta my lovelies ...until we meet again. Thank you for your kindnesses and your friendship. I shall miss you all very much!
Our departure from England being emotional for many reasons. While anxious to return home for the holidays, the friends we have made here on this exchange will be especially missed; and, while leaving home in August was sad we always knew we would return and see our family and friends again - the guarantee to see all our new friends is not as firmly etched. While intentions to visit again, and invitations are open for all to come to America, the reality is most likely not probable that we will see everyone again...and that is especially sad.
On Friday evening the Fairfield High School teaching staff celebrated Christmas again, with a second party in the school dining hall. I was graciously given a coveted Alpaca scarf as a keepsake of my time in the school and was thanked by Mr. Barker for bringing a piece of American culture to the school. Knowing that I will be missed is treasured.
Earlier in the day, at the full school assembly I had been thanked again and received a Fairfield sweatshirt with my initials as a "thank you" for assisting the PE dept. during my stay, and a school calendar - featuring the many animals, insects and reptiles that grace the school grounds. The faculty also gave me a beautiful pendant of blue aqua glass from the city of Bath. I will truly treasure all these sentimental keepsakes, along with the many gifts I received from my colleagues in the English department and my students. These are items which will remain close to my heart as I reflect on all the happy moments of my time at Fairfield.
Goodbye's are never easy - and while my board was covered in well wishes and thank you's from my students - I was especially touched by the lingering Year 7 boy who was the last to leave the classroom on Friday afternoon and parted with a big hug and a Merry Christmas. As teachers, we never know when we have touched the lives of a child, influenced them for the positive or left a lasting impression - sometimes we don't find out for years, sometimes we never find out - but in the case of Fairfield High School students I think I have been privileged to have been as touched by them as they have been by me and it is a rare gift to know it in the moment.
I stood at the window of the classroom for one last time on Friday afternoon, watching the myriad of busses depart from the gate for the Christmas holiday and Micaela departing from her friends with tearful hugs and goodbyes, and I did indeed use a few tissues in the process.
One last cider at the pub with Jo & Ruth, and then off to get ready for the final evening of festivities with the Christmas party kept me busy and my mind off the final departure. With promises to continue long distance friendships and make use of modern technology like facebook and emails there really are no goodbye's .....just....
Ta my lovelies ...until we meet again. Thank you for your kindnesses and your friendship. I shall miss you all very much!
Beauty & the Beast
Main Entry: 1pan·to·mime
Pronunciation: \ˈpan-tə-ˌmīm\
Function: noun
Etymology: Latin pantomimus, from pant- + mimus mime
Date: 1589
1 : pantomimist
2 a : an ancient Roman dramatic performance featuring a solo dancer and a narrative chorus b : any of various dramatic or dancing performances in which a story is told by expressive bodily or facial movements of the performers c : a British theatrical entertainment of the Christmas season based on a nursery tale and featuring topical songs, tableaux, and dances
3 a : conveyance of a story by bodily or facial movements especially in drama or dance b : the art or genre of conveying a story by bodily movements only
— pan·to·mim·ic \ˌpan-tə-ˈmi-mik\ adjective
Yes...that is what the dictionary definition says about Pantomime. However, it is the third part of the second definition which one must pay close attention to when experiencing the Christmas tradition of British pantomime - as I was lucky enough to do on my last evening with Mel,Micaela and Mel's little godchild, who, like Micaela and I, was about to have his first experience with pantomime.
Our Christmas surprise from Mel was to head to the local Hereford production of the pantomime, Beauty & the Beast. It was far from a silent story conveyed with bodily movements only. It truly was one of the most hilarious theater experiences I have ever had. I had thought earlier in the day that we had hissed at the "baddie", but I was yet to find out what hissing at the baddie truly was all about; and truly on this day we experienced the worst and the best of British human nature.
The origins of British Pantomime date back to the Middle Ages. Traditionally they are based on fairy tales and follow a variety of "rules". This peculiar form of entertainment is as much a part of Britain’s heritage as roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, Buckingham palace and the tower of London, warm beer and cricket. Most towns and cities throughout the UK play host to a production of pantomime around the Christmas period. And they are performed in venues, ranging from the top theatres in the land, to local village halls and community centres. And whether it is a lavish professional performance, or a local amateur dramatic production, all are well attended. Modern pantomimes are predominantly aimed at children, and are nearly always based on well-known children's stories, such as popular fairy tales or folk legends. The most popular subjects are "Cinderella", "Aladdin", "Dick Whittington" and "Snow White". Other popular titles include "Jack & the Beanstalk", "Sleeping Beauty", "Babes in the Wood" [usually combining the legend of Robin Hood] and "Peter Pan". Pantomime is a thriving business in the UK. And large theatres vie with each other for "star" names that will attract full houses, providing much needed revenue for box offices throughout the country.
THE PLOT
The plot is very simple: The girl dressed as a boy who is the son of a man dressed as a woman, will win the other girl (surprisingly dressed as a girl), with the assistance of a person(s) dressed in an animal skin. Try explaining that to an American, German or someone from the Far East. Whether the show is set in China, the Never-Never-Land or the City of London it will contain all the aspects regarded as necessary to a pantomime.
'GOODIES' AND 'BADDIES'
The fairy Queen and the Demon King appear in all pantos, although their exact guise and title may differ. From Old King Rat to modern Fairy Liquid, Peter Pan and Hook, names vary according to the location and topicality of shows, but certain stage directions nearly always hold strong. Good enters from stage right and Evil from stage left. This tradition of Evil entering from the sinister side goes back to the mystery plays and the few working star traps [through which the demon used to be projected in a puff of smoke] can always be found in the down stage left position. This tradition seems to echo medieval times, when the entrances to heaven and hell were placed on these sides. Tradition also dictates that the villain should be the first to enter, followed by his adversary the good fairy. The story nearly always revolves around the tried and tested formula of good conquering evil. And requires the principal baddie to make all the innocent characters lives a misery, from the beginning. But by the end of the show, all the baddies and their henchmen will have either been destroyed, or be made to see they error of their ways and turn into reformed characters.
THE 'PRINCIPAL BOY'
The other element of "Traditional" pantomime is the "Principal boy" role [played by a female] although the role is that of a boy hero. The female playing the principal boy usually dresses in short, tight fitting skirts [the shorter and tighter the better] accompanied by knee-high leather boots and fishnet stockings. This provided a marvellous opportunity, in ages past when female attire went down to the ankles, to display a shapely pair of limbs and to increase the male audience. It was very common in both Regency and Victorian extravaganzas, both of which played a part in the shaping of pantomime, for women to play, more or less, any male role that they fancied. The Hamlets and the Romeo’s have been well documented, but it is not so commonly known that in the 19th century women appeared as Falstaff, Richard III, Protruchio, Shylock, and Don Giovanni. The musical male impersonator, so dear to the heart of all Victorian men who love to see a strapping girl in a pair of trousers, was a totally separate phenomenon and enjoyed a brief vogue. This has since lost all popular appeal to a modern day audience. The principal boy lives on as the sole survivor of the male impersonator in the theatre and even beat off the challenge of the swinging sixties. Norman Wisdom took the name part in "Aladdin" at The London Palladium in 1946/7 and was followed in the next decade or so by a wave of popstars. It was left to Cilla Black to reclaim the tights and boots in 1971, since which time the principal boy role has generally remained in the hands [or legs] of the ladies.
THE 'PRINCIPAL GIRL'
Nearly always played by the prettiest female in the cast, and is traditionally portrayed as the epitome of youth and innocence. Although in more modern times has begun to be portrayed as a more feisty character, and less as the pathetic and helpless female of yesteryear. She will usually be called upon to sing a solo. And always ends up "living happily ever after" with the Principal Boy.
THE 'DAME'
The principal boy part was one well-established theatrical convention; an even older one was that of men playing female roles. After women moved onto the stage at the time of the Restoration, a tradition still remained of men playing some comic female roles. A million miles away from the drag act, the Dame is a study in female eccentricity. George Lacy is said to have started the tradition in 1923 of the Dame changing her costume constantly and indeed, prior to that time, costume changes were rare. The Dame's entrances are also more extravagant and exaggerated than any other character. Always played by a male member of the cast, dressed in drag; this character is usually portrayed as oldish, unattractive and fairly common, all qualities which she believes she is the exact opposite of! She befriends the two principals early in the story and is usually instrumental in all the good acts they perform in the course of the story; and quite often ends up "living happily ever after" either with the Principal Girl's kindly old widowed Father/Uncle/Guardian or with the ultimately-reformed Principal Baddie. The pantomime dame character emerged from out of the Victorian Music Halls. And was usually cast as the hero’s mother. Widow Twankey in "Aladdin" or "Dame Trott" in Jack and the Beanstalk. The public loved to see well-known comedians playing the role of Jack’s mother, or Sarah the cook in Dick Whittington. [back then, women comedians were practically unheard of] and the traditional has stuck ever since. The Dame is also known for wearing outrageous costumes, and these are often be used to good comic effect, by parodying the fashions of the day. The Panto Dame should exude warmth and comedy, even pathos, but is never required to do any "dirty Deeds". The only exception being the role in "Mother Goose". I cannot begin to describe the Dame in this production, she was Mrs. Potts the housekeeper of the castle and "she" was nothing short of brilliant.
THE 'UGLY SISTERS'
Unlike the dame, the Ugly Sisters always have to tread a thin line between comic characters, and out and out villains. The ugly sisters are of course an intrinsic part of the Cinderella story. But versions of them can be found woven into in other pantomimes. The first portrayal of the ugly sisters was done by women, but they were soon superseded by men. And like the dame, this has become a tradition that never changes. In this performance, Belle had two selfish sisters.
THE CHORUS AND JUVENILES
The element of song and dance in Pantomime is extremely important. And Pantomime wouldn’t be the same without its chorus of singers and dancers, and troupes of juveniles. Today the average chorus in a small provincial pantomime can number as little as eight. Some shows manage to get by with as little as two professional dancers, supplemented by adult juveniles. Conversely, the chorus/juveniles in amateur productions can vary enormously depending on the enthusiasm and support in any given community. Some amateur groups can have upwards of thirty juveniles in the chorus.
ANIMALS
Every memorable pantomime contains them - and not always the type we have come to expect. The animals in pantomime are usually depicted by speciality turns in "skins". It is true to say that some of the greats started their careers by literally playing the back legs of the pantomime horse. Many years ago at the Hippodrome Theatre, Stockport, the front end of the horse was a young man named Charlie Chaplin. Animals have always enlisted the audience's sympathy and support. In the case of this production, the animals were the "bad guys" in the form of the wolves who attack Belle and her father in the forest outside the Beast's castle.
SLAPSTICK
"Slapstick" takes its name from a device used in these early entertainment's, especially in "Harlequinades" Harlequin was considered to have magical powers. The pantomime traditions of slapstick [meaning a certain type of clownish physical comedy] chases, speed and transformations were developed from Rich's Harlequinades. Slapstick eventually developed into modern form involving the throwing of custard pies, and squirting of water.
TAB SCENES
Tabs scenes, or ‘transformation scenes’ are played out in front of the middle curtains or ‘tabs’. And started as a way of moving between the different sections of the pantomime. Rather than just stopping one section and starting another, actors found ever more creative and imaginative ways to continue the story until the necessary scenery changes had been made. During these scenes, the actors would take off the giant head masks that they had worn for the story and remove their costumes to reveal themselves as the Commedia dell’art characters. As pantomime developed and stage technology became more advanced the transformations became events in themselves. Stage designer, William Beverley, first used the transformation scenes to alter stage sets. Scenery was flown in from above on wires or changed by a series of hinged flaps. Trick objects turned around to become another object. Beverley introduced a 'fan effect' where the scenery collapsed sideways and inwards, like a folding fan, to reveal a view from behind.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
I have left this section to last. As it probably sums up what pantomime means to most people in the UK. Audience participation is as an important part of English pantomime tradition, as anything I have previously mentioned. And even the most staid members of the audience, suddenly become unrestrained in their enthusiasm to take part. The audience are actively encouraged to boo the villain whenever he enters, argue with the Dame, and warn the Principal Boy when the villain is behind them, by shouting out "He's behind you!" Below is a typical example of this in action. Ugly sister. "I’m much prettier than Cinderella" Audience - "Oh no you're not!" Ugly sister - "Oh yes I am!" Audience - "Oh no you're not!" This back and forth verbal jousting between the actors and the audience is an integral part of ‘panto’, and can happen several times throughout the show. Sometimes the actors will even leave the stage and move amongst the audience to continue this repartee. Our performance also included a dance routine set to the tune of the "Time Warp" from the Rocky Horror Picture Show movie. It was truly quite fun!
THE FUTURE
Pantomime has survived, by adapting many elements of theatre. The element of "novelty" has always been an important factor in achieving this, as has its ability to incorporate modern trends and topicality within its structured framework. And by successfully weaving these into its format, it remains one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the UK. There are probably as many different explanations of pantomime and its history, as there are changes of the dame’s costumes. Pantomime is a living, growing art form. The Commedia Dell'art from which it is derived has all but died as, eventually, does all theatre which becomes fossilised. Pantomime has survived by taking and expanding from the new ideas that each age has given, and we hope this gloriously eccentric British institution continues to do so. "Oh yes we do!
Info from the "History of British Pantomime" website.
Pronunciation: \ˈpan-tə-ˌmīm\
Function: noun
Etymology: Latin pantomimus, from pant- + mimus mime
Date: 1589
1 : pantomimist
2 a : an ancient Roman dramatic performance featuring a solo dancer and a narrative chorus b : any of various dramatic or dancing performances in which a story is told by expressive bodily or facial movements of the performers c : a British theatrical entertainment of the Christmas season based on a nursery tale and featuring topical songs, tableaux, and dances
3 a : conveyance of a story by bodily or facial movements especially in drama or dance b : the art or genre of conveying a story by bodily movements only
— pan·to·mim·ic \ˌpan-tə-ˈmi-mik\ adjective
Yes...that is what the dictionary definition says about Pantomime. However, it is the third part of the second definition which one must pay close attention to when experiencing the Christmas tradition of British pantomime - as I was lucky enough to do on my last evening with Mel,Micaela and Mel's little godchild, who, like Micaela and I, was about to have his first experience with pantomime.
Our Christmas surprise from Mel was to head to the local Hereford production of the pantomime, Beauty & the Beast. It was far from a silent story conveyed with bodily movements only. It truly was one of the most hilarious theater experiences I have ever had. I had thought earlier in the day that we had hissed at the "baddie", but I was yet to find out what hissing at the baddie truly was all about; and truly on this day we experienced the worst and the best of British human nature.
The origins of British Pantomime date back to the Middle Ages. Traditionally they are based on fairy tales and follow a variety of "rules". This peculiar form of entertainment is as much a part of Britain’s heritage as roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, Buckingham palace and the tower of London, warm beer and cricket. Most towns and cities throughout the UK play host to a production of pantomime around the Christmas period. And they are performed in venues, ranging from the top theatres in the land, to local village halls and community centres. And whether it is a lavish professional performance, or a local amateur dramatic production, all are well attended. Modern pantomimes are predominantly aimed at children, and are nearly always based on well-known children's stories, such as popular fairy tales or folk legends. The most popular subjects are "Cinderella", "Aladdin", "Dick Whittington" and "Snow White". Other popular titles include "Jack & the Beanstalk", "Sleeping Beauty", "Babes in the Wood" [usually combining the legend of Robin Hood] and "Peter Pan". Pantomime is a thriving business in the UK. And large theatres vie with each other for "star" names that will attract full houses, providing much needed revenue for box offices throughout the country.
THE PLOT
The plot is very simple: The girl dressed as a boy who is the son of a man dressed as a woman, will win the other girl (surprisingly dressed as a girl), with the assistance of a person(s) dressed in an animal skin. Try explaining that to an American, German or someone from the Far East. Whether the show is set in China, the Never-Never-Land or the City of London it will contain all the aspects regarded as necessary to a pantomime.
'GOODIES' AND 'BADDIES'
The fairy Queen and the Demon King appear in all pantos, although their exact guise and title may differ. From Old King Rat to modern Fairy Liquid, Peter Pan and Hook, names vary according to the location and topicality of shows, but certain stage directions nearly always hold strong. Good enters from stage right and Evil from stage left. This tradition of Evil entering from the sinister side goes back to the mystery plays and the few working star traps [through which the demon used to be projected in a puff of smoke] can always be found in the down stage left position. This tradition seems to echo medieval times, when the entrances to heaven and hell were placed on these sides. Tradition also dictates that the villain should be the first to enter, followed by his adversary the good fairy. The story nearly always revolves around the tried and tested formula of good conquering evil. And requires the principal baddie to make all the innocent characters lives a misery, from the beginning. But by the end of the show, all the baddies and their henchmen will have either been destroyed, or be made to see they error of their ways and turn into reformed characters.
THE 'PRINCIPAL BOY'
The other element of "Traditional" pantomime is the "Principal boy" role [played by a female] although the role is that of a boy hero. The female playing the principal boy usually dresses in short, tight fitting skirts [the shorter and tighter the better] accompanied by knee-high leather boots and fishnet stockings. This provided a marvellous opportunity, in ages past when female attire went down to the ankles, to display a shapely pair of limbs and to increase the male audience. It was very common in both Regency and Victorian extravaganzas, both of which played a part in the shaping of pantomime, for women to play, more or less, any male role that they fancied. The Hamlets and the Romeo’s have been well documented, but it is not so commonly known that in the 19th century women appeared as Falstaff, Richard III, Protruchio, Shylock, and Don Giovanni. The musical male impersonator, so dear to the heart of all Victorian men who love to see a strapping girl in a pair of trousers, was a totally separate phenomenon and enjoyed a brief vogue. This has since lost all popular appeal to a modern day audience. The principal boy lives on as the sole survivor of the male impersonator in the theatre and even beat off the challenge of the swinging sixties. Norman Wisdom took the name part in "Aladdin" at The London Palladium in 1946/7 and was followed in the next decade or so by a wave of popstars. It was left to Cilla Black to reclaim the tights and boots in 1971, since which time the principal boy role has generally remained in the hands [or legs] of the ladies.
THE 'PRINCIPAL GIRL'
Nearly always played by the prettiest female in the cast, and is traditionally portrayed as the epitome of youth and innocence. Although in more modern times has begun to be portrayed as a more feisty character, and less as the pathetic and helpless female of yesteryear. She will usually be called upon to sing a solo. And always ends up "living happily ever after" with the Principal Boy.
THE 'DAME'
The principal boy part was one well-established theatrical convention; an even older one was that of men playing female roles. After women moved onto the stage at the time of the Restoration, a tradition still remained of men playing some comic female roles. A million miles away from the drag act, the Dame is a study in female eccentricity. George Lacy is said to have started the tradition in 1923 of the Dame changing her costume constantly and indeed, prior to that time, costume changes were rare. The Dame's entrances are also more extravagant and exaggerated than any other character. Always played by a male member of the cast, dressed in drag; this character is usually portrayed as oldish, unattractive and fairly common, all qualities which she believes she is the exact opposite of! She befriends the two principals early in the story and is usually instrumental in all the good acts they perform in the course of the story; and quite often ends up "living happily ever after" either with the Principal Girl's kindly old widowed Father/Uncle/Guardian or with the ultimately-reformed Principal Baddie. The pantomime dame character emerged from out of the Victorian Music Halls. And was usually cast as the hero’s mother. Widow Twankey in "Aladdin" or "Dame Trott" in Jack and the Beanstalk. The public loved to see well-known comedians playing the role of Jack’s mother, or Sarah the cook in Dick Whittington. [back then, women comedians were practically unheard of] and the traditional has stuck ever since. The Dame is also known for wearing outrageous costumes, and these are often be used to good comic effect, by parodying the fashions of the day. The Panto Dame should exude warmth and comedy, even pathos, but is never required to do any "dirty Deeds". The only exception being the role in "Mother Goose". I cannot begin to describe the Dame in this production, she was Mrs. Potts the housekeeper of the castle and "she" was nothing short of brilliant.
THE 'UGLY SISTERS'
Unlike the dame, the Ugly Sisters always have to tread a thin line between comic characters, and out and out villains. The ugly sisters are of course an intrinsic part of the Cinderella story. But versions of them can be found woven into in other pantomimes. The first portrayal of the ugly sisters was done by women, but they were soon superseded by men. And like the dame, this has become a tradition that never changes. In this performance, Belle had two selfish sisters.
THE CHORUS AND JUVENILES
The element of song and dance in Pantomime is extremely important. And Pantomime wouldn’t be the same without its chorus of singers and dancers, and troupes of juveniles. Today the average chorus in a small provincial pantomime can number as little as eight. Some shows manage to get by with as little as two professional dancers, supplemented by adult juveniles. Conversely, the chorus/juveniles in amateur productions can vary enormously depending on the enthusiasm and support in any given community. Some amateur groups can have upwards of thirty juveniles in the chorus.
ANIMALS
Every memorable pantomime contains them - and not always the type we have come to expect. The animals in pantomime are usually depicted by speciality turns in "skins". It is true to say that some of the greats started their careers by literally playing the back legs of the pantomime horse. Many years ago at the Hippodrome Theatre, Stockport, the front end of the horse was a young man named Charlie Chaplin. Animals have always enlisted the audience's sympathy and support. In the case of this production, the animals were the "bad guys" in the form of the wolves who attack Belle and her father in the forest outside the Beast's castle.
SLAPSTICK
"Slapstick" takes its name from a device used in these early entertainment's, especially in "Harlequinades" Harlequin was considered to have magical powers. The pantomime traditions of slapstick [meaning a certain type of clownish physical comedy] chases, speed and transformations were developed from Rich's Harlequinades. Slapstick eventually developed into modern form involving the throwing of custard pies, and squirting of water.
TAB SCENES
Tabs scenes, or ‘transformation scenes’ are played out in front of the middle curtains or ‘tabs’. And started as a way of moving between the different sections of the pantomime. Rather than just stopping one section and starting another, actors found ever more creative and imaginative ways to continue the story until the necessary scenery changes had been made. During these scenes, the actors would take off the giant head masks that they had worn for the story and remove their costumes to reveal themselves as the Commedia dell’art characters. As pantomime developed and stage technology became more advanced the transformations became events in themselves. Stage designer, William Beverley, first used the transformation scenes to alter stage sets. Scenery was flown in from above on wires or changed by a series of hinged flaps. Trick objects turned around to become another object. Beverley introduced a 'fan effect' where the scenery collapsed sideways and inwards, like a folding fan, to reveal a view from behind.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
I have left this section to last. As it probably sums up what pantomime means to most people in the UK. Audience participation is as an important part of English pantomime tradition, as anything I have previously mentioned. And even the most staid members of the audience, suddenly become unrestrained in their enthusiasm to take part. The audience are actively encouraged to boo the villain whenever he enters, argue with the Dame, and warn the Principal Boy when the villain is behind them, by shouting out "He's behind you!" Below is a typical example of this in action. Ugly sister. "I’m much prettier than Cinderella" Audience - "Oh no you're not!" Ugly sister - "Oh yes I am!" Audience - "Oh no you're not!" This back and forth verbal jousting between the actors and the audience is an integral part of ‘panto’, and can happen several times throughout the show. Sometimes the actors will even leave the stage and move amongst the audience to continue this repartee. Our performance also included a dance routine set to the tune of the "Time Warp" from the Rocky Horror Picture Show movie. It was truly quite fun!
THE FUTURE
Pantomime has survived, by adapting many elements of theatre. The element of "novelty" has always been an important factor in achieving this, as has its ability to incorporate modern trends and topicality within its structured framework. And by successfully weaving these into its format, it remains one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the UK. There are probably as many different explanations of pantomime and its history, as there are changes of the dame’s costumes. Pantomime is a living, growing art form. The Commedia Dell'art from which it is derived has all but died as, eventually, does all theatre which becomes fossilised. Pantomime has survived by taking and expanding from the new ideas that each age has given, and we hope this gloriously eccentric British institution continues to do so. "Oh yes we do!
Info from the "History of British Pantomime" website.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Hallelujah!
Tonight I attended the Fairfield Carol Service, and while Northbridge High School students are presenting their Holiday Concert, and I have often enjoyed some wonderful harmonious melodies at home to celebrate the holiday season- the Carol Service was an experience unlike anything I have ever experienced in a school setting.
There is something to be said for the intertwining of school and church - unlike the U.S. where the pride very much lies in separation of church and state, which prevents public schools from using terms like "Merry Christmas" and instead resort to using "Happy Holidays"; the secularism in our U.S. schools prevents us from having something as wonderful as this Carol Service.
The performance of Silent Night was especially poignant and brought tears to many eyes in the hall. A combination of readings from the Bible, Christmas carols, blessing and prayer honors the true meaning of Christmas; something that is all too often lacking in our society and our schools. Micaela and I truly enjoyed the student choir, orchestra and singalong's by the congregation.
It has also been nice to see the school decorated for Christmas; complete with trees, candles, wreaths and mistletoe.
It should not go unnoticed that once again Kath and Josie prepared a delicious meal of roast turkey and all the fixings- along with some Christmas pudding and brandy sauce. Thank you again for feeding us before this wonderful service.
Below is a performance by the Fairfield High School choir and orchestra of Handel's Hallelujah Chorus which was performed during the Christmas Carol Concert held the next day in school.
There is something to be said for the intertwining of school and church - unlike the U.S. where the pride very much lies in separation of church and state, which prevents public schools from using terms like "Merry Christmas" and instead resort to using "Happy Holidays"; the secularism in our U.S. schools prevents us from having something as wonderful as this Carol Service.
The performance of Silent Night was especially poignant and brought tears to many eyes in the hall. A combination of readings from the Bible, Christmas carols, blessing and prayer honors the true meaning of Christmas; something that is all too often lacking in our society and our schools. Micaela and I truly enjoyed the student choir, orchestra and singalong's by the congregation.
It has also been nice to see the school decorated for Christmas; complete with trees, candles, wreaths and mistletoe.
It should not go unnoticed that once again Kath and Josie prepared a delicious meal of roast turkey and all the fixings- along with some Christmas pudding and brandy sauce. Thank you again for feeding us before this wonderful service.
Below is a performance by the Fairfield High School choir and orchestra of Handel's Hallelujah Chorus which was performed during the Christmas Carol Concert held the next day in school.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Wild Mistletoe, Holly and Ivy..Tis the Season!
The beauty of the season is marked in Europe by the growth of wild mistletoe, holly and ivy everywhere. I have been amazed by how mistletoe grows, and even more amazed by how lovely it really is. In America, when you buy mistletoe, you purchase this tiny sprig of leaves with plastic white berries attached. I have appreciated the true beauty of the plant in its natural surroundings - and as a decoration in the front foyer of Fiarfield High. If I thought I could get through customs with some, I would attempt to bring it home.
The growth of this plant is rampant in the area of Hereford, as there are a lot of apple trees and orchards, and mistletoe likes these trees. Mistletoe, while beautiful and poisonous at the same time, is a parasite spread by birds from tree to tree. It grows in circular balls and hangs from the trees.
Additionally, holly grows just as wild, with all kinds of shapes and sizes to its leaves, and is usually intertwined with ivy vines. It truly is reminiscent of the song "The Holly and the Ivy."
I have unearthed an interesting National Geographic feature story on the growth of mistletoe as it relates to global warming...relevant as the final days of the climate change summit takes place. The article explained how the growth of mistletoe can be indicative of a warmer and milder climate. In recent years, the growth of mistletoe is taking hold in higher mountain altitudes, which would lead to a conclusion that the climate is warming.
Holly and mistletoe have long been used to celebrate winter festivals in countries, such as Great Britain, where pre-Christian Druids considered both plants to be sacred.
Under Christian rule, holly's blood-red berries and spiked leaves came to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ. Mistletoe kept its association as a fertility symbol, with couples kissing under a hanging sprig.
The growth of this plant is rampant in the area of Hereford, as there are a lot of apple trees and orchards, and mistletoe likes these trees. Mistletoe, while beautiful and poisonous at the same time, is a parasite spread by birds from tree to tree. It grows in circular balls and hangs from the trees.
Additionally, holly grows just as wild, with all kinds of shapes and sizes to its leaves, and is usually intertwined with ivy vines. It truly is reminiscent of the song "The Holly and the Ivy."
I have unearthed an interesting National Geographic feature story on the growth of mistletoe as it relates to global warming...relevant as the final days of the climate change summit takes place. The article explained how the growth of mistletoe can be indicative of a warmer and milder climate. In recent years, the growth of mistletoe is taking hold in higher mountain altitudes, which would lead to a conclusion that the climate is warming.
Holly and mistletoe have long been used to celebrate winter festivals in countries, such as Great Britain, where pre-Christian Druids considered both plants to be sacred.
Under Christian rule, holly's blood-red berries and spiked leaves came to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ. Mistletoe kept its association as a fertility symbol, with couples kissing under a hanging sprig.
The Choir of King's College- The Holly & the Ivy
Merry Christmas....
Merry Christmas....
Boston Baked Beans & Brown Bread
It seems my last post has caused controversy in the main office with the ladies. My dislike of baked beans in tomato sauce vs Boston baked beans in molasses has surprised many of them...they have never heard of baked beans in molasses, and generally molasses itself seems to be reserved as something to be used to mix with animal feed! To my surprise, I have learned that "cooking" molasses generally is not a staple in the local grocery stores.
Additonally, while Boston Baked Beans are usually made with navy beans, the local fare are haricot beans. Just one more example of how one learns something new every day.
In this conversation with Margaret Anne, who made a special trip to my classroom just to have this discussion, we talked about the tradition of Saturday night supper, which, when I was young, and especially if I was having supper with my Pepe, included hot dogs and beans and maybe even some brown bread - traditionally cooked in cleaned, recycled tin cans.
I have also determined that hot dogs here are not exactly what I deem to be a Kayem, Fenway Frank or the gold standard of all dogs - the Deutshmacher! Hot dogs here are barely edible, in my opinion, as my sole experience with the local product, after one bite, found the entire package discarded in the rubbish bin.
I have promised that cans of these delectable New England delights will find their way to Fairfield after the holiday season; along with a myriad of other products that have been requested from across the pond.
The history of the Boston Baked Bean is actually an interesting one. "Beantown" is the city of Boston's famous nickname,dating to colonial times, when the city was awash in molassess due to its rum-producing role in the triangular trade. Sugar cane harvested by slaves in the West Indies was shipped to Boston to be made into rum, which was then sent to West Africa to buy more slaves to send to the West Indies.
Even after slavery's end, Boston continued to be a big rum-producing city. The Great Molasses Flood of 1919, which killed 21 and injured 150, occurred when a tank holding molasses for rum production exploded. (About.com)
Below are recipes for both Boston Baked Beans and Brown Bread. I have found these on the web - but you will be able to make them for yourselves if you want.
Boston Baked Beans
Ingredients:
16 ounces (2 cups) dry navy beans
2 quarts cold water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup molasses
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
4 ounces salt pork
1 medium onion, chopped
Rinse beans; add to water in saucepan. Bring to boiling and simmer 2 minutes; remove from heat. Cover; let stand 1 hour. (Or add beans to cold water; soak overnight.) Add salt to beans and water; cover and simmer till beans are tender, about 1 hour. Drain, reserving liquid. Measure 2 cups liquid, adding water if needed; mix with molasses, brown sugar, and mustard. Cut salt pork in half; score one half. Grind or thinly slice remainder. In 2-quart bean pot or casserole (I prefer the bean pot), combine beans, onion and ground salt pork. Pour molasses mixture over. Top with scored pork. Cover; bake in 300 oven for 5 to 7 hours. Add more liquid if needed. Makes 8 servings.
Boston Brown Bread
This is best made the night before, this way the flavor will be enhanced and you can clean up some of the mess the night before. Wrap the bread in foil, freeze a couple and just reheat in the oven. This is also a nice bread to bring camping or hiking. Keep in the can and just heat near the campfire (away from direct flames).
Sift together 1 cup sifted rye flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon soda, and 1 teaspoon salt; stir in 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon allspice. Add 2 cups buttermilk, 1 cup raisins, and 3/4 cup dark molasses; beat well. Divide batter among 4 greased and floured 16-ounce fruit or vegetable cans (labels removed). Cover tightly with foil. Place on rack in deep kettle; add boiling water to depth of 1 inch (cans should not be resting in water). Cover; steam 3 hours, adding more boiling water if needed. Bread is done when it has risen almost to fill the can and the center has puffed slightly. (If center remains indented, steam 15 minutes or so more). Cool 10 minutes. Remove bread, best done by removing bottom of can and pushing bread out of can. Wrap; store overnight. Makes 4.
Bon Apetit!
In this conversation with Margaret Anne, who made a special trip to my classroom just to have this discussion, we talked about the tradition of Saturday night supper, which, when I was young, and especially if I was having supper with my Pepe, included hot dogs and beans and maybe even some brown bread - traditionally cooked in cleaned, recycled tin cans.
I have also determined that hot dogs here are not exactly what I deem to be a Kayem, Fenway Frank or the gold standard of all dogs - the Deutshmacher! Hot dogs here are barely edible, in my opinion, as my sole experience with the local product, after one bite, found the entire package discarded in the rubbish bin.
I have promised that cans of these delectable New England delights will find their way to Fairfield after the holiday season; along with a myriad of other products that have been requested from across the pond.
The history of the Boston Baked Bean is actually an interesting one. "Beantown" is the city of Boston's famous nickname,dating to colonial times, when the city was awash in molassess due to its rum-producing role in the triangular trade. Sugar cane harvested by slaves in the West Indies was shipped to Boston to be made into rum, which was then sent to West Africa to buy more slaves to send to the West Indies.
Even after slavery's end, Boston continued to be a big rum-producing city. The Great Molasses Flood of 1919, which killed 21 and injured 150, occurred when a tank holding molasses for rum production exploded. (About.com)
Below are recipes for both Boston Baked Beans and Brown Bread. I have found these on the web - but you will be able to make them for yourselves if you want.
Boston Baked Beans
Ingredients:
16 ounces (2 cups) dry navy beans
2 quarts cold water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup molasses
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
4 ounces salt pork
1 medium onion, chopped
Rinse beans; add to water in saucepan. Bring to boiling and simmer 2 minutes; remove from heat. Cover; let stand 1 hour. (Or add beans to cold water; soak overnight.) Add salt to beans and water; cover and simmer till beans are tender, about 1 hour. Drain, reserving liquid. Measure 2 cups liquid, adding water if needed; mix with molasses, brown sugar, and mustard. Cut salt pork in half; score one half. Grind or thinly slice remainder. In 2-quart bean pot or casserole (I prefer the bean pot), combine beans, onion and ground salt pork. Pour molasses mixture over. Top with scored pork. Cover; bake in 300 oven for 5 to 7 hours. Add more liquid if needed. Makes 8 servings.
Boston Brown Bread
This is best made the night before, this way the flavor will be enhanced and you can clean up some of the mess the night before. Wrap the bread in foil, freeze a couple and just reheat in the oven. This is also a nice bread to bring camping or hiking. Keep in the can and just heat near the campfire (away from direct flames).
Sift together 1 cup sifted rye flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon soda, and 1 teaspoon salt; stir in 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon allspice. Add 2 cups buttermilk, 1 cup raisins, and 3/4 cup dark molasses; beat well. Divide batter among 4 greased and floured 16-ounce fruit or vegetable cans (labels removed). Cover tightly with foil. Place on rack in deep kettle; add boiling water to depth of 1 inch (cans should not be resting in water). Cover; steam 3 hours, adding more boiling water if needed. Bread is done when it has risen almost to fill the can and the center has puffed slightly. (If center remains indented, steam 15 minutes or so more). Cool 10 minutes. Remove bread, best done by removing bottom of can and pushing bread out of can. Wrap; store overnight. Makes 4.
Bon Apetit!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
What I'll miss...and what I WON'T!
As I approach the final week of my exchange - I still can't believe its about to come to an end - I have been asked numerous times by my new friends and students alike, what I will miss the most about Fairfield and England, and what I am looking forward to doing/seeing the most when I return home. I suppose it is worthy of a blog post; as up to now my life has been an open book - well, almost...
So in no particular order (other than the first two)-
The Things I Will Miss the Most:
The people - I have definitely assimilated myself into the culture of Fairfield and I have made so many new friends, it feels like I have known most of them my whole life! I will miss so much the ladies in the English department, and my good mates in the PE dept., along with the kind ladies in the office and Kath and Josie - there are just too many people to name. Thank you all for your kindness and friendship these past four months; I truly have had a most wonderful experience.
I will miss my students - they have been so good and have taught me as much as I hope I have taught them. I will miss my form group; and I know that somewhere in that group of young footballers is the next David Beckham. My Year 7 group, while the most challenging on some days, have lived up to the expectations I have set for them and they have all adjusted well to high school life. I will miss my Year 8 class; we have come a long way from the start of the school year and I have developed a particular fondness for this group of students. I promise there will be care packages coming your way soon! I will miss the chattiness of my Year 9, but they have been great to teach, as have been all the Year 10 and 11 students that I have had the pleasure of knowing since coming here. Thank you all so much for sharing your school and your lives with me - hopefully you will each get an email partner in the next few weeks.
I will also miss:
...Kath's flapjacks & mince pies - although I won't miss the calories!
...the view of mountaintops and green pastures filled with cows, horses and sheep.
...the Pandy Inn.
...basketball, netball and rugby matches.
...my Year 7 boys win their tournament game in February!
...wild mistletoe, holly bushes and ivy.
...Mel's Christmas pudding and brandy butter (after I eat the one she gave me to take home).
...my neighbors: Debbie, Katie & Lucy and their dogs.
...cloudy lemonade.
...fish 'n chips and chips 'n cheese.
...authentic Indian curry.
...London.
...running to France for a weekend.
...a one hour lunch break.
...the projection screen for lessons.
...my Fulbright friends and the British Council gatherings.
...writing my blog.
...BBC Radio 1.
...Cadbury crunchies.
...the Walsh's and the Kerby's.
...Lucy Hockey hair salon, especially Katie! She gives an awesome cut!
...Tracy and Chloe nail salon, love them!
...cold cider on tap.
...rugby matches in Brecon with Ellie and her friends.
...crashing at Jan & Ian's.
...cranberry cheese and cinnamon apple cheese.
What I Won't Miss:
...the drive to school.
...driving on the left.
... shifting with my left hand; a serious case of neck/shoulder/wrist pain has started to plague me.
...spending money on petrol.
...the exchange rate.
...the smell of putrefying rats under floor boards.
...flies.
...rain, more rain, wind and mud.
...stinging nettles.
...sheep; they're creepy.
...hedge-lined lanes.
...baked beans in tomato sauce; it's just not right.
...AQA mark schemes!
...the chairs and tables in the classrooms; individual desks with welded chairs are my thing.
...registration after lunch.
...Mondays without a prep.
...low water pressure.
...hanging clothes to dry.
...a 3:30 dismissal time.
...the bulletin board with all the crazy notices; please could we use email!!!
...handwriting student reports.
What I Am Looking Forward to the Most:
...seeing Michael.
... seeing Zachary.
...sunshine & snow.
...cuddling with my dogs, Duke & Charlie.
...seeing ALL my friends and family at home and all my students at NHS.
...going to the NHS basketball game on Tuesday.
...my morning coffee stop at the Little Coffee Bean!
...a 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. day.
...my car!
...my country music station.
...my tumble dryer.
...the warmth of the coal stove.
...Patriots football games.
...chips & Helluvagood Onion dip.
...pizza.
...Chinese & Thai food!
...margarita's on the rocks with a salted rim.
...the Outback, Longhorns, and Vinny T's!
...Friday afternoon's with the crew!
...having a cold one at the VF, Hawks Nest and the Barn.
...Boston Baked Beans...in molasses!
... my homemade sauce and meatballs.
...the teacher contract negotiations; this exchange has strengthened my confidence- bring it on!
So in no particular order (other than the first two)-
The Things I Will Miss the Most:
The people - I have definitely assimilated myself into the culture of Fairfield and I have made so many new friends, it feels like I have known most of them my whole life! I will miss so much the ladies in the English department, and my good mates in the PE dept., along with the kind ladies in the office and Kath and Josie - there are just too many people to name. Thank you all for your kindness and friendship these past four months; I truly have had a most wonderful experience.
I will miss my students - they have been so good and have taught me as much as I hope I have taught them. I will miss my form group; and I know that somewhere in that group of young footballers is the next David Beckham. My Year 7 group, while the most challenging on some days, have lived up to the expectations I have set for them and they have all adjusted well to high school life. I will miss my Year 8 class; we have come a long way from the start of the school year and I have developed a particular fondness for this group of students. I promise there will be care packages coming your way soon! I will miss the chattiness of my Year 9, but they have been great to teach, as have been all the Year 10 and 11 students that I have had the pleasure of knowing since coming here. Thank you all so much for sharing your school and your lives with me - hopefully you will each get an email partner in the next few weeks.
I will also miss:
...Kath's flapjacks & mince pies - although I won't miss the calories!
...the view of mountaintops and green pastures filled with cows, horses and sheep.
...the Pandy Inn.
...basketball, netball and rugby matches.
...my Year 7 boys win their tournament game in February!
...wild mistletoe, holly bushes and ivy.
...Mel's Christmas pudding and brandy butter (after I eat the one she gave me to take home).
...my neighbors: Debbie, Katie & Lucy and their dogs.
...cloudy lemonade.
...fish 'n chips and chips 'n cheese.
...authentic Indian curry.
...London.
...running to France for a weekend.
...a one hour lunch break.
...the projection screen for lessons.
...my Fulbright friends and the British Council gatherings.
...writing my blog.
...BBC Radio 1.
...Cadbury crunchies.
...the Walsh's and the Kerby's.
...Lucy Hockey hair salon, especially Katie! She gives an awesome cut!
...Tracy and Chloe nail salon, love them!
...cold cider on tap.
...rugby matches in Brecon with Ellie and her friends.
...crashing at Jan & Ian's.
...cranberry cheese and cinnamon apple cheese.
What I Won't Miss:
...the drive to school.
...driving on the left.
... shifting with my left hand; a serious case of neck/shoulder/wrist pain has started to plague me.
...spending money on petrol.
...the exchange rate.
...the smell of putrefying rats under floor boards.
...flies.
...rain, more rain, wind and mud.
...stinging nettles.
...sheep; they're creepy.
...hedge-lined lanes.
...baked beans in tomato sauce; it's just not right.
...AQA mark schemes!
...the chairs and tables in the classrooms; individual desks with welded chairs are my thing.
...registration after lunch.
...Mondays without a prep.
...low water pressure.
...hanging clothes to dry.
...a 3:30 dismissal time.
...the bulletin board with all the crazy notices; please could we use email!!!
...handwriting student reports.
What I Am Looking Forward to the Most:
...seeing Michael.
... seeing Zachary.
...sunshine & snow.
...cuddling with my dogs, Duke & Charlie.
...seeing ALL my friends and family at home and all my students at NHS.
...going to the NHS basketball game on Tuesday.
...my morning coffee stop at the Little Coffee Bean!
...a 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. day.
...my car!
...my country music station.
...my tumble dryer.
...the warmth of the coal stove.
...Patriots football games.
...chips & Helluvagood Onion dip.
...pizza.
...Chinese & Thai food!
...margarita's on the rocks with a salted rim.
...the Outback, Longhorns, and Vinny T's!
...Friday afternoon's with the crew!
...having a cold one at the VF, Hawks Nest and the Barn.
...Boston Baked Beans...in molasses!
... my homemade sauce and meatballs.
...the teacher contract negotiations; this exchange has strengthened my confidence- bring it on!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Tea with the "Queen!"
Prior to departing for this exchange I had written in an earlier post, after receiving my Patriots tickets for the London game, that this exchange could only get better if I had tea with the Queen; to which Dave Provis responded that the Queen had been known to occasionally stop by Fairfield - well, yesterday, Her Majesty did indeed stop by Fairfield for tea!
My Year 10 drama students, Micaela included, surprised me with a fantastic, creative and original production as a goodbye and thank you for working with them this term. (Despite the fact that I have been an absolute rubbish drama teacher!)
I arrived for the term's last drama lesson a bit late, as Mel had given me a heads up that I needed to give the kids a few minutes because they were planning something for me to see, and they needed to get ready. I arrived to an empty drama room, except for Micaela and two other students seated on the floor. The stage was set with a banquet table and chairs, and some treats displayed. As I took my seat, one by one the students entered from "backstage" and began performing a "tea party"; each student dressed in costume and playing the part of various British characters. Their play was quite humorous and at one point,as I was a spectator I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes.
The tea party progressed with more and more people joining it, additional food being delivered and then one character made a phone call to the Queen to invite her to the tea party - the role of the Queen being played by Mel, dressed in her royal purple especially for the occasion. It was at that point that I was invited to join the tea party on stage and was presented with a thank you card and many well wishes from the group. Of course, at that point, the tears in my eyes were no longer from laughter, as I was deeply touched by this lovely gesture, completely generated by the students.
The tea party continued, everyone still in role, and then Jo, Ruth and Jayne (the rest of the English dept.) joined us also. The students performed karaoke, we played the "minister's cat" game and other drama games during the remainder of the lesson. Each student had cooked something for the tea party - from homemade scones and sausage rolls, to cucumber sandwiches and chocolate cake! I wish so much I had this performance on videotape, because for the first time all term I saw how truly creative and talented the entire group of students, acting together really are.
The students had planned this during their lesson last week, when Mel worked with them, and spent the entire of this week rehearsing during lunch times. I had wondered on several occasions about all the noise coming from the drama room all week long, as it is directly above my classroom. On one occasion three young ladies asked for the keys, and when I asked why they needed them, they hesitated for a brief second and then came up with some excuse about doing something for Mrs. Williams. I thought they were trying to avoid hurting my feelings, thinking they were continuing to rehearse a bullying drama concept, without my involvement, as I truly am rubbish with giving dramatic advice. So at that point, seeing their hesitation, I assured them that my feelings were not hurt one bit if they were working with a proper drama teacher. They nodded, took the keys and off they went. Even Micaela kept the secret, carrying on with the bullying production practicing and making some pointed remark about one student constantly complaining about having to use lunch time to rehearse for a whole week; sounded plausible to me, so I completely believed her.
It was a truly touching gesture and a memory I will fondly cherish long after I depart Fairfield. Thank you so much GCSE Drama Year 10 students - you truly are a remarkable group of young people and I have been truly privileged to have been your teacher for this short time.
My Year 10 drama students, Micaela included, surprised me with a fantastic, creative and original production as a goodbye and thank you for working with them this term. (Despite the fact that I have been an absolute rubbish drama teacher!)
I arrived for the term's last drama lesson a bit late, as Mel had given me a heads up that I needed to give the kids a few minutes because they were planning something for me to see, and they needed to get ready. I arrived to an empty drama room, except for Micaela and two other students seated on the floor. The stage was set with a banquet table and chairs, and some treats displayed. As I took my seat, one by one the students entered from "backstage" and began performing a "tea party"; each student dressed in costume and playing the part of various British characters. Their play was quite humorous and at one point,as I was a spectator I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes.
The tea party progressed with more and more people joining it, additional food being delivered and then one character made a phone call to the Queen to invite her to the tea party - the role of the Queen being played by Mel, dressed in her royal purple especially for the occasion. It was at that point that I was invited to join the tea party on stage and was presented with a thank you card and many well wishes from the group. Of course, at that point, the tears in my eyes were no longer from laughter, as I was deeply touched by this lovely gesture, completely generated by the students.
The tea party continued, everyone still in role, and then Jo, Ruth and Jayne (the rest of the English dept.) joined us also. The students performed karaoke, we played the "minister's cat" game and other drama games during the remainder of the lesson. Each student had cooked something for the tea party - from homemade scones and sausage rolls, to cucumber sandwiches and chocolate cake! I wish so much I had this performance on videotape, because for the first time all term I saw how truly creative and talented the entire group of students, acting together really are.
The students had planned this during their lesson last week, when Mel worked with them, and spent the entire of this week rehearsing during lunch times. I had wondered on several occasions about all the noise coming from the drama room all week long, as it is directly above my classroom. On one occasion three young ladies asked for the keys, and when I asked why they needed them, they hesitated for a brief second and then came up with some excuse about doing something for Mrs. Williams. I thought they were trying to avoid hurting my feelings, thinking they were continuing to rehearse a bullying drama concept, without my involvement, as I truly am rubbish with giving dramatic advice. So at that point, seeing their hesitation, I assured them that my feelings were not hurt one bit if they were working with a proper drama teacher. They nodded, took the keys and off they went. Even Micaela kept the secret, carrying on with the bullying production practicing and making some pointed remark about one student constantly complaining about having to use lunch time to rehearse for a whole week; sounded plausible to me, so I completely believed her.
It was a truly touching gesture and a memory I will fondly cherish long after I depart Fairfield. Thank you so much GCSE Drama Year 10 students - you truly are a remarkable group of young people and I have been truly privileged to have been your teacher for this short time.
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