Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 March saw the return of the Lower 4 plays festival, with tales of strange sights and school strikes! On Wednesday 26 March, pupils displayed the works of Fantastic Mr. Fox and Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations. Roald Dahl’s much-loved story, Fantastic Mr Fox, follows the vain attempts of three farmers, Boggis, Bunce and Bean, one fat, one short, one lean, to get rid of the sly fox who regularly steals food from their farms. They try to get rid of him by any means possible. Outwitted at every turn, by the Fantastic Mr Fox who was played brilliantly by Santiago O’Dwyer. Pupils brought this to life with wit and humour, capturing the mischief of the tale. Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations showcases the tale of a young boy with an incredible imagination. Ernie’s parents take him to the doctor in search of a cure but once they’re there, they discover Ernie’s ‘illucinations’ are more powerful than they realised. Everything Ernie imagines – from secret agents to a boxing granny – becomes real. Pupils utilised multi-rolling and physical theatre in their performance, allowing for incredibly engaging storytelling. On Thursday 27 March, The Burston School Strike and I’m a God Get Me Out of Here! Was taken to the Blake. The Burston School Strike tells a story of rebellion and standing up for justice. On 1 April, 1914, pupils of the Burston village school in Norfolk, supported by their parents, took to the streets in protest at the dismissal of their teachers, Tom and Kitty Higdon. The pupils worked to bring to the stage the true tale of the longest school children’s strike in UK history and did a brilliant job. I’m A God Get Me Out of Here was a comedic piece about Ancient Greek Gods that used to be the almighty rulers of heaven and earth, but now, they’re getting evicted... Cramped in a dingy flat surrounded by stale Pot-Noodle, all they can do now is reminisce on the good old days. The pupils adaptations were humorous and thoughtful and special thanks must go to Isaac Schaad for writing the music and Grace Adlam for writing part of the script! Congratulations to all that took part!

On Monday, March 26 and Tuesday 27 March, Epic Studios came alive with the Senior Dance Festival 2025. Two packed audiences were thrilled to see over 130 talented pupils, from the Lower School to Upper 6 take to the stage to showcase an impressive array of performances, including pieces from both curriculum and co-curriculum groups, pupil choreography, guest choreographers, and company repertoire. The two nights of performances showcased a diverse range of dance styles, from hip-hop to contemporary, musical theatre to ballet. The pupils’ dedication and hard work truly shone through, resulting in two spectacular shows that left the audience in awe.