Pupils from Prep 4 to Prep 6 performed a production of ‘Horizon’ over the festive season; a Christmas musical Mrs Ellie Parkes, our Performing Arts Lead in the Prep School, started writing when she was just 17.
Mrs Parkes started writing the show as part of her A Level Music composition portfolio. Now, many years later, with considerable adaptation and additions, it has been brought to the stage for the first time.
The production is a modern retelling of the traditional Christmas story, told through popular musical styles and was performed by pupils aged 8 to 11. The show combines Hip Hop, R’n’B and lyrical ballads – with the music speaking for itself, grabbing the audience’s attention and capturing their hearts.
Told through the eyes of God, the production showcases the desperation of Joseph (played by Scarlett), the quiet composure of Mary (played by Belle), the sassiness of the Angel Gabriel (aka Angel G played by Saskia), the audacity of Herod (played by Rachelle) and some comical interactions between the three Wise Men, who all believe their gift is better than the rest. The complexity of the music proved a great platform for the abilities of the girls at Badminton School Prep who undertook each number with great confidence.
Mrs Parkes commented: “I have always had such an affiliation with the magic of Christmas and the wonder of music presented at this special time of year. The original idea has evolved and grown since I started writing it aged 17. One of the joys of being the Performing Arts Lead at Badminton School Prep is seeing the development of the girls and how they have taken on the technical complexities of the script, the staging and the music. It is a privilege to have been given the opportunity to present it at Badminton. My thanks go to all the pupils involved in the production. They have worked so hard in rehearsals, believing in the process from the beginning with such dedication.”
Heidi Welch, Head of Badminton School Prep, commented: “Performing arts are a real feature of our Prep School and it is a real asset to have an expert writer and producer on the staff. With each production I always wonder how any performance can top the last; with ‘Horizon’ Ellie and the girls have certainly done this.”
