Rose Ling (L6) reports on a highly successful and entertaining Amnesty Variety Evening...

"The evening began with a simple introduction - “I hope you enjoy this amnesty variety evening; a long-awaited event that will be exceedingly enjoyable, fun filled and entertaining.”  - and without a doubt, the Amnesty Variety Evening was exactly that, and more. 

On Thursday 9 March, the Blake Studio was bursting with talent; Kandian dancing and Sri Lankan percussion (performed by Mr and Mrs Werapitiyia), G force choir and an array of beautiful voices and dancing. Daniel Conway and Ben Dernie took to the stage looking dapper in black tie with distinguished compering, ensuring operations ran smoothly, along with terrible jokes divulged too! 

Not to be forgotten, the ever famous and legendary school rock band ‘Beard’ had a highly successful performance; the song choices being impeccable and stimulating a full audience participation. 

This whole variety of acts and culture created a beautiful atmosphere and appreciation, encompassing a sense of unity and touching at Norwich School’s aim of inspiring people to develop their creative curiosity. 

During the evening, Hannah Possener and I reiterated the central reason of the variety evening; to raise money for Amnesty, and to emphasise how all refugees and migrants should be treated with dignity, respect, and feel welcome in Norwich and globally. Hannah’s speech challenged us all to contemplate the struggles in Afghanistan, the Taliban stripping women and young girls of their basic human rights. 

Overall, Amnesty raised a total of £500 to contribute towards three poignant and important projects: 

The Nandana Werapitiya Village Foundation 

English Plus refugee support in Norwich 

Restoring old bikes to be delivered to the local refugee community. 

On behalf of the Amnesty group, I would like to say a huge thank you to all those who participated and attended the evening, making it a such great success!"