Nominated by Phoenix Principal Phil Dale
Drew is a triple threat student who studies drama, dance and musical theatre with Phoenix and has shown great improvement in recent months. He also recently completed two weeks work experience with the company. During that time he proved himself to be not only great fun to work with but reliable, adaptable and willing, three qualities that will no doubt serve him well in his future career. Drew’s commitment to Phoenix in recent weeks has been unprecedented and we are delighted to give this Jack Petchey Achievement Award to Drew in recognition of this fact.
Clown Troupe to enter Talent Search
Phoenix drama students spent 3 days during the Easter holidays in the company of internationally renowned Hip Hop artist Jody Schroeder in order to learn the basics of various Hip Hop skills including popping, locking, breaking and beatboxing. The workshop was funded by the Jack Petchey Foundation following a grant application made by Phoenix Principal Phil Dale. The Phoenix Clowns were first used as cheerleaders during the Thunderslam Wrestling shows that Phil used to produce at The Playhouse in Harlow. Having stopped producing the shows, Phil was keen to keep the idea of the clown troupe. It is planned for the troupe to become a vehicle for promoting Phoenix Theatre School at events and shows by using physical theatre and Hip Hop skills.
Throughout the 3 day workshop Jody was joined by Phoenix Vice-Principal Jeanne Stacey who helped develop a 5 minute mime, physical theatre and Hip Hop routine. The first chance for the Clowns to be tested in front of an audience will be at the auditions for the forthcoming Rhodes Talent Search event in Bishops Stortford. The auditions will be the first stage of the competition, with the ultimate goal of all acts to win through to the Grand Final at the Rhodes on Saturday May 26th. The winners of the Rhodes Talent Search get to showcase their performances at the Bishops Stortford Carnival in June.
Phil was delighted with the way the workshops went and is really looking forward to the Clowns becoming an integral part of the school. “Jody is an amazing guy – he’s just about the most passionate performer I’ve ever come across and the students loved being able to spend time with someone of that calibre.” The Clowns distinctive look and character will be revealed at the auditions at Rhodes and we’ll bring you details of how well they went down as soon as we can.
More pictures from the Clown workshop can be found on our Facebook page.
Nominated by Phoenix Principal Phil Dale
Emily is a diligent and conscientious student who always approaches her performance with a mature and professional attitude. This was most recently demonstrated in the role she took in her group performance of The Pied Piper at the recent Phoenix Showcase. Such is her commitment, that she has recently moved to the second, more advanced drama group on Tuesday evenings. She is a great student with much potential and I am sure she will continue to flourish.
Nominated by Dance Tutor Katie Barker-Dale
Jake has been a regular member of the Phoenix Theatre School for some time now. His attendance at Dance class is excellent, he is always cheerful and smiling and ready to try anything. He always tries his best and tackles all the choreography with enthusiasm. He is the only boy in his class and still goes for it even though the routines are sometimes a bit girly!! Well done Jake!
Nominated by Musical Theatre Tutor Debbie Hannam
Alysha gets this award for her continuing commitment to Phoenix and her complete reliability as a student. Alysha is a talented young performer, always focused, positive and energised in class. Her attitude has such a great effect on her peers. She is always a pleasure to teach. Well done Alysha.