20 Mar 2025
A newly-formed school drama company has brought down the house after winning a major youth drama festival with the first performance of their new play.
Launched in December 2024, The Marlborough Science Academy’s Drama Company is made up of students across Years 7-13 who have successfully auditioned to take part.
Their one-act play, Shadows of the Stage, made its debut at the prestigious Welwyn Garden City Youth Drama Festival, where it stunned audiences and judges alike to win the Youth Committee Cup on its very first appearance.
Tristan Marshall from GoDA (Guild of Drama Adjudicators) highlighted the stylish direction and excellent performances by the cast: “This is a really good ensemble play, a bravura exercise in imagination from a company that rose to every challenge; visually great, comedically fabulous, very well done Marlborough!”
The play, by drama teacher and deputy head James Griggs, explores the nature of fear and nightmare in a darkly comic and visually striking production which features music and songs devised by the company.
The author said: “This achievement has only emboldened the students in their mission, to be a part of original theatre that entertains, challenges, and asks the biggest questions of all, how and why?
“In just under four months, Marlborough’s brand-new Drama Company has already made its mark, proving that innovation and ambition can lead to incredible success.
“This pioneering company is dedicated exclusively to creating original theatre, giving students the chance to be part of something extraordinary from the very beginning of their journey to the end.
“Our school has always provided a wealth of performance opportunities, however, this company is something entirely new. A space where students can rehearse, and perform original work, tackling powerful themes and daring storytelling.
“For Marlborough, this is just the beginning. The future of theatre for our young thespians is being shaped and written here.”
Producer Claire Griggs added: “This is the first year we have entered the festival, and it has been a great experience, the students had a chance to perform in a real theatre and to win is the icing on the cake.”
Shadows of the Stage also received four nominations from the National School Theatre Awards team after they watched a performance at the school.
The judges said: “A striking and imaginative production, Shadows of the Stage weaves together original music, movement, and a rich visual style to tell a story of power, fear, and fate.
“It was a privilege to witness such a bold and imaginative piece of theatre.”
TMSA head Annie Thomson added: “Shadows of the Stage written by our own wordsmith Mr Griggs impressed at all levels and has been nominated at the National School Theatre Awards.
“Described as a dreamlike tapestry of movement and storytelling it is a fabulous reflection of a talented staff team and a group of young people with the charisma, determination and vision to follow their instincts and do the play justice, a real triumph and all at Marlborough are exceptionally proud.”
Marlborough Drama Company is already deep into its next project, a brand-new original play inspired by A Christmas Carol.
This time, they’re exploring a question that has fascinated readers for generations: out of all the souls in the world, why was Ebenezer Scrooge chosen for redemption?
