Children enjoy summer extravaganza of drama

Children enjoy summer extravaganza of drama

25 August 2021

DORANS Academy of Speech and Drama, near Dundrum, was the location for a summer extravaganza of drama programmes for all ages and abilities.

The children took part in various skills, including writing, ing, casting and directing.

Events began with the Downpatrick Autism Family Support Group writing their own version of the Princess and the Pea. entitled ‘Princess Penguin and The Pea’.

Devising the characters and their own take on this classic tale, the children’s energy, enthusiasm and creativity was abounding.

The Scallywags followed suit with their own spectacular version of events which they entitled ‘Princess of Smelly Feet Kingdom and The Pea’. There e was plenty of song and dance as each day was packed full of imagination and the creative juices flowed thick and fast.

Directors bubbled to the surface, naturally taking on the responsibility when given the space and freedom and the children felt so empowered.

The Ragamuffins created a real show and a wedding to remember as their more traditional version of the epic tale was unveiled.

Not to be outshone, the Thespians created a murder mystery-themed production entitled ‘Mushrooms ‘n’ Murder’.

Academy leader Michelle Dorans said: “Defining characters, plot, theme, locations from scratch, the group came up with an unrivalled script full of corruption, intrigue, deception, murder and suspicion.

“Using green scene technology, the production aspect was thrilling and so educational. Team work really came to the fore as did oodles of directorship skills and choreography.”

She continued: “Recording each of the shows scene by scene the grand finale of the week soon dawned with a Holywood experience of walking the red carpet, an awards ceremony and acceptance speeches after watching the premiere of their show on the big movie screen in the studio with popcorn and much excitement as the trailers rolled.

“It was certainly a summer to remember with a suitcase full of skills, memories and new friendships to take home and engage again and again. It was just fantastic to see the children aged from three to 16 years grow and flourish in just one week.

“Session by session their natural potential was being tapped and nourished, the self belief, confidence and performance skills grew ten-fold at least.

“I can’t wait for regular weekly classes to resume and welcome lots of new and old members back to continue their drama journey.”

Dorans Academy won the 2021 Cooperative Livewire Prestige award for creative arts classes for children in Northern Ireland.

Added Michelle: “With my dedicated studio, I am passionate about all things drama and the power it has to build children in so many ways and to tear down obstacles for them, laying foundations for a path underpinned by strong core beliefs of self worth, self belief, confidence and self esteem.

“From these solid foundations they can strive forward in whatever their chosen career and other interests and exploit their full potential.”