Performing Arts Department Shortlisted for National Award!

Congratulations to Craven College Performing Arts Department which has been shortlisted by the Music & Drama Education Awards 2021 for Excellence in Musical Theatre for their production of Little Shop of Horrors.

The winner will be announced at a virtual ceremony 6:00pm on the 24 March 2021 at https://www.musicdramaedawards.com/ and Facebook Live.

The Craven College’s Musical Theatre Project has now been running since 2009 at the Mart Theatre in Skipton which is run by ex-student Andy Lynam. The most recent production was Little Shop of Horrors in February 2020. The venue for the performance was the Mart Theatre (Craven Cattle Marts) in the heart of Skipton and the Craven community.

Rehearsals ran from October to February at College and then the production transferred to the Mart Theatre. The venue operates like a local cattle auction from Monday to Wednesday and then a theatre for the rest of the week. On the Wednesday of production week, the auction ring is dismantled, cleaned out and the set, props and costumes put in place for performances on the Friday and Saturday. On the Friday afternoon, a free performance is given to local schools and the Colleges’ students with high needs giving them the chance to experience “live” theatre.

Giles Atkinson, Performing Arts Manager said ‘The production itself did not only involve performing arts students but also students who are studying make-up and media and took on a truly cross-curricular approach. It also gave an opportunity for the students to work with industry professionals such as lighting and sound designers and the wider community of Skipton as live music for the production was provided by band musicians from Ermysted’s School.

Our performing arts students come from a whole range of areas and backgrounds, some have been involved with performing arts since a very young age and others have not been on stage at all until they arrive at Craven College. As well as performing in a full-scale musical it gives the students opportunities to engage in the arts no matter what their background or experience. We promote an inclusive and welcoming environment in which everyone can be themselves, build confidence, develop new skills and express themselves through the arts.’

Anita Lall, Vice Principal, Curriculum and Quality congratulated the staff and students for their richly deserved recognition.