By Miss Elsom (Drama Theatre and Events Technician)

As we move into November the excitement only continues to build for our sold out and Joint Production of Les Misérables with Bedford School. The cast, band and now crew are working tirelessly as we approach our final weeks up to the performances. A production of this size is a huge undertaking and all of the students and staff from both schools are taking it within their stride to ensure the final product is of the highest standard for such a well-known musical.

With rehearsals every Monday, Tuesday and Friday as well as two Sunday Rehearsals being undertaken the performance is truly taking shape, with already a full run through of the performance with the student band. It is truly exceptional to see how excited and determined the students are and how much pride they are taking in the performance. Lily Robertson (Upper Sixth), playing Madame Thenardier said this “The Les Misérables process has been a brilliant one and I'm sad that it will soon be over. Working with Bedford School every week is great fun and I'm so glad I've had the opportunity to make new friends! The Quarry is an amazing space and it's such a privilege to work in it every week. I can't wait for our (fast approaching...) show week and I'm so excited to share all our hard work with everyone coming to watch!”

It is without a doubt an ambitious project, with a full-scale barricade, hired costumes and a crew of 20 strong it is going to be something to behold. As the performance is taking place at The Quarry Theatre at Bedford School, it is a wonderful opportunity for our students to be working in a new venue, learning new lighting and sound boards, whilst being able to use the Fly system to bring scenery in and out.

A collaborative project on this scale is unlike anything that the students will experience, working with different staff and students alike. Polly Taylor (Upper Sixth) said: “It has been so exciting getting to work on this show for the past term, working with the boys and teachers from Bedford School has been really fun and it’s been amazing to watch the show slowly come together. I am massively looking forward to the final performances with the costumes and set at the end of November.”

We are so excited to be presenting Les Misérables to you from Wednesday 27th until Saturday 30th November at The Quarry Theatre.