Lights, laughter, and unforgettable performances took centre stage at as students welcomed schools from across County Durham for a week of theatre workshops and performances inspired by The Addams Family musical.
Pupils from Belmont, Framwellgate, Greenfield, Woodham and Elmore schools joined the college’s Performing Arts department for an immersive experience that combined live theatre, practical workshops, and behind-the-scenes insight into life in the performing arts industry.
The event displayed not only the talent of the cast and crew, but also the leadership, professionalism, and creativity of New College Durham’s Year 1 Performing Arts students and FdA Performance Practice Level 5 students, who helped organise and facilitate the activities throughout the week.
One school described the production as “amazing,” praising the performances of Gomez, Wednesday, Fester, and Morticia, while highlighting the strength of the ensemble and the show’s comedy and stagecraft. Another school spoke of how inspiring it was to see their students fully engaged, including those who would not normally feel confident singing or dancing.
Gemma Whelam, lecturer in Performing Arts at New College Durham said:
“It was a wonderful week working with students from numerous schools across Durham. Our college students were excellent ambassadors and role models for the department. They supported the staff and were integral in making the experience unique for the school students.”
Year 1 students Daisy Barber and Dillian Sample added:
“It was great to share our show with so many young people across the county. The young people who visited us enjoyed the workshops as it was an opportunity that some of them have never had before. As members of the cast, we are proud to have introduced younger audiences into our world. We hope our performance has influenced people to venture into theatre themselves.”
The project reflects New College Durham’s continuing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people while strengthening links with schools and the wider community through the performing arts.