Pupils on the stage at RADA

On Saturday 3 December twenty pupils studying Drama at GCSE and A Level visited the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

In the morning pupils took part in a devising workshop run by a RADA tutor and in the afternoon pupils saw a Third Year RADA student production of the play Ashes and Sand followed by a tour of the building and facilities. During the tour pupils were impressed to be standing on the stage that names such as John Gielgud and Ralph Fiennes have performed upon.

It was interesting to hear that RADA students regularly work from 9 am to 9 pm and often on Saturdays. Only fifteen female and fifteen male students are accepted from the thousands who audition every year, however, once accepted, no student is ever required to leave due to financial difficulties; students in difficulty will always be supported by the Academy until they complete their training.

The following are quotes from pupils who attended the visit:

• It was a truly unique once in a lifetime experience, Emily (Year 13)
• A truly inspirational day, Lauren (Year 11)
• In one word; inspiring. It has given me the motivation to go further with Drama. Absolutely fantastic!  - Alex (Year 11)
• An absolute privilege, Hippolyte (Year 12)
• Best day ever. I learnt so much and I want to go back’,  Maddy (Year 11)
• Truly inspiring, powerful and a little intimidating if I’m honest’,  Jasmine (Year 11)
• The level of student performance was exceptional and has given me real determination to apply such energy and focus to my performance work, Rachel (Year 12)