23 Apr 2024
New College Durham’s Level 3 Performing Arts students embarked on an educational trip to visit the heart of the Theatreland in London, immersing in the rich tapestry of drama and performance.
Students gained valuable real-world insights into the diverse world of theatre, visiting Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the National Theatre, two West End productions and play, Pineapple Dance Studios, and the legendary Drury Lane.
Gemma Whelam, Lecturer at New College Durham commented “Wow what a week! The students have been exposed to so many different genres of theatre through performances, workshops and tours. They have been utterly immersed into Theatre Land and London Life. They have grasped every opportunity presented to them and have been excellent ambassadors for the college. We can’t wait to get back into the rehearsal room to work on our end of year show.”
The journey commenced with a visit to the iconic Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Guided by expert storytellers, students delved into the rich history and theatrical tradition of this legendary venue, igniting their passion for the stage.
At the esteemed National Theatre, students gained exclusive backstage access, exploring costume departments and prop workshops. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process behind world-class productions inspired them to envision their own theatrical masterpieces.
The excitement continued with tickets to two spectacular West End productions. From toe-tapping showstoppers to captivating performances, students were able to witness the pinnacle of theatrical excellence, gaining invaluable insights into the myriad styles of performance.
At Pineapple Dance Studios, professional choreographers led an exhilarating dance workshop. Students were encouraged to unleash their creativity, discovering new dimensions of self-expression through the art of dance.
Stepping onto the historic grounds of Drury Lane, students embarked on a guided tour of this legendary venue. As they traced the footsteps of theatre legends, they gained a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that define the world of performance.
Level 3 Performing Arts student Freya Graham commented, “I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to London with my classmates and lecturers. Seeing shows such as Moulin rouge, Guys and Dolls, and The Play That Goes Wrong, proved to me how many different styles of performing there actually are and what a privilege it is to be a part of that. The tours that we went on gave us a wonderful insight into the history of the theatres and how some of the venues were based off original designs of the theatres. Overall, spending time with these special people has impacted our relationship as a class and I wouldn’t ask for anything more. I look forward to the rest of my year here at New College Durham!"
From the timeless works of Shakespeare to the electrifying energy of West End musicals, this residential trip ignited passion, fostered creativity, and inspired a lifelong love of the performing arts.
Applications are now open for our FE and HE courses. To find out how to apply visit our help page at https://www.newcollegedurham.ac.uk/students/how-to-apply
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