Band and Cast Prepare For Centre Stage

With the opening night of Chicago: Teen Edition fast approaching, we caught up with students and staff to learn more about the hard-work and creativity bringing this exciting show to life!

Mr Oldfield has been directing performances in the department for eight years, but this year he hands the reigns to Tee J Randall, he commented. “Tee J co-directed Les Misérables with me, and has choreographed every musical I have done at Truro School. As Chicago is such a dance-heavy show, and our most ‘Musical Theatre’ show to date, it was a no brainer that Tee J should lead – which she has done, inspiring the pupils with her challenging choreography, patience, and humour.” Mr Oldfield is taking on the role of Producer, ensuring everything is ready on time and running smoothly.

A delightful element of the show is that the band will be on stage for this performance. Most school performances work with a pre-recorded band track, and Truro School has previously piped the musical element of the show from the music rooms opposite into the Burrell Theatre. For Chicago, Mr Osmond’s band will be centre stage – performing live to the audience. They will be in full view, making this a first for the Burrell Theatre and adding excitement for all performers and spectators. Mr Oldfield said, “Richard has been a dynamo of positivity, also leading his band and the cast with wit and humour and a palpable love of the material. Kander and Ebb’s infectious tunes and wry lyrics are in safe hands under his baton!”

Members of the band have been working extremely hard on their performance during WAA, weekends, evenings and holidays. Upper Sixth student Finlay has been assisting Mr Osmond with a busy schedule of dual rehearsals – offering pupils the opportunity to rehearse in a smaller setting where they can practice without pressure. Finlay has been playing the piano throughout the rehearsals, before Sixth Form student Samson takes over for the main performances. Finlay was motivated to volunteer himself for musical rehearsals after Head Boy Ollie, his predecessor two years ago, assisted similarly. He has been improving his skills, especially in musical management, running vocal warmups, playing piano and tuba, and expanding his confidence in the field. Finlay is excited for the band to appear on stage for the first time in the performance. He will be playing the tuba and double bass for the show and after graduation is interested in studying at a conservatoire – the experience gained through the music and theatre departments at Truro School, have been imperative to his future aspirations.

Mr Oldfield is passionate about the performance, and keen that pupils should get a real insight into the industry, which is why shows are run in a professional theatre company capacity. This allows many opportunities for pupils to join in all aspects of the production. Chicago is a timeless but very relative play in current society as it centres around celebrity culture. He says “There isn’t a single phrase of dialogue that isn’t perfectly crafted to deliver that satire. In a cool, jazzy and stylish way – and all we have to do as performers is to deliver the goods”.

Many pupils have been involved with the theatre since 1st Year, but new faces are always welcome. Henrika has joined the team this term, during her secondment from Germany. Enrolling into production later than the rest of the team, she has put in a lot of work to ensure she is ready for the performance. This is her first time performing in English – which due to the nature of the play is delivered in American accents. In Germany, she is a member of many musical clubs, but has found an opportunity to brush up on her choreography and be fully immersed in performing, as opportunities in her hometown are fewer. She has found fellow performers and the girls in her boarding house to be very welcoming. Her parents have been very proud of her involvement in Chicago, and she will cherish the memories made for years to come.

We can’t wait for this highly anticipated production, running from 20–23 November, with tickets selling quickly through the Burrell Theatre. While we don’t want to spoil too much, here’s a peek at some of the rehearsals and a little glimpse at what’s in store…