House Drama Competition

One of the highlights of the Churcher's Year is the House Drama Competition.

The plays are chosen, rehearsed and presented entirely by members of the five houses without the help of members of staff except in practical matters such as the provision of props and costumes. Traditionally the plays are the responsibility of the Lower 6th and all but the Upper 6th may be involved. Plays must last no longer than 30 minutes with 5 minutes to set and 5 minutes to strike the set.  Marks are lost if these limits are exceeded. The plays are scored to an amended version of the British Drama League System with 80 marks available for acting, production and presentation and 20 for Costume, Endeavour, Attainment and Originality.

The adjudicator this year, returning for a second time, was professional actor Philip Bird who often appears on our screens as well as the theatre.  This year Drake House opened the evening  to a packed house with 'Bus Stop' by Rae Shirley. Rodney House presented 'Let Her Rip' by Donna Brightwell, followed by Grenville House with 'The Queen Must Die' by David Farr. Then Nelson House 'George' by Derek Hickman and finally Collingwood with 'Way Out West' by Richard Tydeman.

Grenville House were judged winners by Philip who also chose an outstanding performer in each play. Katie Hickey as Mrs Hickery in 'Bus Stop', Jessica Kohn as Lisa in 'The Queen Must Die', Lily Benson as Nurse  in 'George', Will Pritchard as Compere in 'Way Out West' and overall best actor Amy Simpkins as Emily in 'Let Her Rip'. 

The House Play competition has now run consecutively for 36 years and  will be a fitting epitaph to thespian Deputy Head Peter Sutton whose brain child it was in 1976, two years after starting his 38 year career as language master at Churcher's College. Peter retires this summer and will be much missed by all at the College but maybe persuaded to return in an adjudicating position.....watch this space!