Middlesbrough College students celebrated success with their end of year show Carrie The Musical. Based on Stephen King’s infamous thriller novel Carrie, the show featured high energy ensemble dance routines and a strong anti-bullying message.
The musical is set in an American high school and revolves around Carrie (Niamh Casey), a misfit with telekinetic powers who is bullied and mistreated until she reaches her breaking point. At school Carrie is bullied by the shows main antagonists Sue Snell (Jess Carr), Chris Hargensen (Megan Dury) and Billy Nolan (Cameron Nunn) and at home Carrie is also mistreated by her loving but cruelly oppressive mother (Rebecca McClelland).
The pop/rock style musical has proven to be a hit with the students and allowed them to showcase their talents both in performance and production. The show featured an impressive custom made set design of an American high school, designed and built by the College’s Production Arts students.
Cast member Rebecca McClelland said “It’s been so much fun; I have loved this show and will be so sad when it’s all over. I have enjoyed my time at College on my Performing Arts course and would 100% recommend the course to anyone wanting to be involved in the theatre.
“The course is a lot of fun and very practical. I feel very prepared to progress to university to study Musical Theatre.”
Level 3 Performing Arts student Cameron Nunn said “The course is fantastic; since I have been at College I must have performed in 14 industry standard shows. The course is very practical and allows you to work in a professional theatre; the tutors are so supportive and help you prepare for auditions and university interviews.” Cameron has recently been offered a place to study Comedy Acting at the University of Salford following a successful audition.
Leading lady Niamh Casey said “The course is honestly like one big family. I have made so many friends and learnt so much. The show was amazing and the cast is insanely talented. It’s been great to grow throughout the 2 years as a performer and I have developed in singing, acting and dancing.”
The Performing Arts and Production Arts department are celebrating a string of offers at leading drama schools and universities with students set to study at RADA, LAMDA, Urdang, Laine Theatre Arts and various prestigious universities.
Course leader Claire Teasdale said “We are thrilled to bring Carrie the musical to the College stage, every year we challenge our students and this year was no exception. The musical is emotionally and physically challenging, however the students delivered an exceptional performance.
“We provide our students with a professional experience throughout their College courses, giving them the opportunity to be involved in numerous theatrical productions. Staging performances such as this gives our students industry experience and knowledge of professional conduct.
“It’s no surprise that several of our students have secured places at leading drama schools and universities.”
To find out more about the Performing Arts and Production Arts courses at Middlesbrough College come along to the College open event on Wednesday 11th July. Places are still available to enrol for September.