HEAD’S VIEW
Head's View
18 October 2019
Each October, in the two weeks before the half term break, it is always a pleasure to sense the gathering momentum of preparations for House Music and Drama. Far from winding down, the School is gearing up for its annual display of creative talent and collective endeavour (with just a hint of competitive spirit…). One of the many joys of having a room in the heart of the School (aside from the priceless snippets of daily life I catch from passing pupil traffic) is listening in to the increasingly exciting lunchtime and after school rehearsals in the Dance Studio and the Hardcastle Hall.
I’m always reminded, when the project is in full swing, of just how much more it achieves than the pages of any script will reveal. Above all, there is the laughter: whether it’s over attempts to master complex dance routines or at House Captains’ super-enthusiastic encouragement of the signature song, the process is joyful. Then there is the powerful feeling of shared purpose, made all the more poignant by the theme of breaking down barriers which has been woven into this year’s original and imaginative interpretations.
But perhaps what is especially wonderful about ‘HMAD’ is the growth it affords directors and performers alike. Unlike the dismal bickering and hapless blundering that characterise the team efforts in any Apprentice episode, House Captains show year on year that through this experience they have gained real confidence. With a week to go before curtain up, they are making the decisive choices of strong leaders and bringing their House-mates together to cheerlead for Carrington, to do Ducat proud, keep Kensington in contention and put Paget on the podium. Performers meanwhile, including our newest arrivals, have risen superbly to the challenge of new routines and meeting new people. Good luck to all four Houses for Monday’s dress rehearsal and here’s to another joyful day on Thursday.
In another excellent week of sport, we have exciting news about our swimming teams (Featured in the accompanying photo). And as the nights draw in and we think about the importance of looking after our wellbeing without much sunshine, do take a look at the piece below about our new Wellbeing magazine.
Wishing you a happy weekend
Jan Cresswell
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