Performing Arts to lift curtain on rock ‘n roll show!

Performing Arts students are preparing to lift the curtain on their fantasTEC end-of-year show – a rock ‘n roll musical set in 1960s America.

Let’s Go to the Hop is the work of Level 2 and 3 Performing Arts Stage & Screen students, who have taken on the planning, rehearsing and production of the show as part of their Final Major Project.

Set at Sherman High School in 1963 against the emerging picture of rock ‘n roll and social issues such as racial and sexual equality, it deals with the drama of family, friendship, the Senior dance and having the right to decide your own future.

Whilst students have collaborated with the Performing Arts team on the show’s production, it has also benefited from a range of cross-college support. Art and Design students designed and painted the set, Joinery built it, Media Make-Up supported make-up and hair, Catering are providing refreshments and ushers and Music make up the band.

Performing Arts Programme Leader Matt Stradling said: “We are proud of our cross-curricular approach and this year we have been fortunate to be supported by a range of different college areas. No production is possible without the support and kind assistance from our friends and colleagues.”

He added: “Let’s go to the Hop is a fun rock ‘n roll jukebox musical set in 1963 America. It follows the trials and tribulations of Laura Williams, her family and friends as they approach the Senior dance. But the local Pastor wants to cancel the dance and then Laura finds out something that will change everything!

“The students have put in a huge amount of work preparing for this production and have done a fantastic job; it’s not to be missed so book your tickets now.”

James Ireland, a Level 3, Year 2 student, also commented: “People should come and see the show because it’s great music, a great story and a fun night out.

“We’ve been very involved in the process; we’ve devised a few of the scenes and developed our own characters. It’s been challenging along the way but a really fun journey and we’re really looking forward to the show.

“I love performing and it’s something I’ve been involved with from a young age. This is a really practical course, especially in lesson, so it’s exciting, fun and we do a lot of different things.”

The show has also been supported by a range of individuals, companies and organisations, including the Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough Theatre Company, Tim Tubbs & UKFD, Scarborough YMCA, Tom Cornforth and Paul Stear.

The show is running from May 24^th to 27^th at 7pm. Tickets are £7.50, or £5 for concessions. There is a special offer for dinner and a show on Thursday, May 26^th for just £10. Book here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lets-go-to-the-hop-tickets-320626030087