Grimm Tales, a play adapted by the writer Carol Ann Duffy was performed at the Henrietta Barnett School for two evenings, on the 19th and 20th of March. Enjoyed by all year groups, as well as teachers and parents, the collection of stories ranging from the classics such as Snow White to lesser known tales, the Magic Table and the Musicians of Bremen, revealed a talented cast of 11 to 15 year olds, directed by Mr Horrigan, Director of Drama, and Ms Levy.
Although many of the tales that were told in the production were new to the majority of the cast, all of the girls embraced their roles as narrators, evil queens, cunning hedgehogs and most notably, trees. The Grimm Tales originally written by the Brothers Grimm, spanned a program of 10 stories: Snow White, Brother Scamp, The Hare & The Hedgehog, A Riddling Tale 1 & 2, The Golden Goose, Musicians of Bremen, Rumplestiltskin, The Magic Table, Iron Hans and finally, The Lady and The Lion.
The performance was supported by a spectacular technical and backstage team of older girls, and the brilliant and often chilling atmosphere, set by the advanced lighting and minimal set complimented the actresses perfectly. Both performances went by without a hitch, or if any happened, it was impossible for the audience to realise.
This year’s production follows up similarly awestriking performances from previous years, Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat, Our Country’s Good, Broadway, Magic of the Musicals and Cabaret, to name some from recent years. Many thanks goes to Mr Horrigan, the Director, for his commitment in his first ever HBS play, as well as Ms Levy for helping with the acting, and special thanks to Mr Cain, Director of Tech and Backstage. The long weekend and after school rehearsals paid off, and HBS was able to pull off another amazing play. Now, let’s wait patiently for next years one!
