King's Rewind

It is with immense pleasure that we welcome The King's Academy Youth Theatre as one of our newest members to NODA North. I was absolutely delighted to be invited to this prestigious school to celebrate 20 years of inspiring young performers through their remarkable production, King’s Rewind. In the programme, Director Eddie Jones shared a powerful sentiment: “King’s Academy Youth Theatre is more than just a school production; it’s a family,  It’s built on collaboration, passion, and the unwavering belief in what young people can achieve when they’re given the stage.” I wholeheartedly echo these words. On the night I attended, I witnessed this belief come to life, with each performer truly embracing the school’s mission statement “that every student is valued, challenged, and inspired.” These principles were evident in the outstanding teamwork, creativity, and dedication displayed throughout the production.

As part of this special 20-year celebration, the performance was interwoven with moving and inspirational pre-recorded testimonies from past students. These reflections highlighted the invaluable skills, teamwork, and life lessons they gained through their time in the youth theatre. Many spoke of how their experiences in the youth theatre have shaped their adult lives, professionally and personally demonstrating the long-term investment that The King's Academy has made in its students. It was a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of arts education and the importance of nurturing young talent.

There were several commendations made to acknowledge the dedication and talent of key staff members who have contributed significantly to its achievements. Carey Brownless received a special mention for her extraordinary commitment over the past 20 years, designing and creating costumes for every single production, she has ensured that each student had stepped onto the stage in a costume tailored specifically for them. Her work is a powerful testament to her passion for both the students and the Academy, and her contribution has become an integral part of the theatre’s identity. Dave Bone was also acknowledged for his invaluable technical support; his expertise ensures that the technical elements of each production are delivered with professionalism and precision. Beyond his behind-the-scenes work, Dave has generously shared his knowledge with students, helping them learn and appreciate the craft of technical theatre. Additionally, the Arts Department was commended for their creativity and dedication in designing the sets and props for each production. Their work has supported the visual aspect of the productions and brought each story to life on stage, adding depth and vibrancy to the performances and enriching the overall theatrical experience. Well done to Mrs Orlopp who Musically Directed the showcase and Mrs Dodsworth was supported the Director in the choreography. Finally, Eddie Jones, Director and choreographer who is a true champion of the arts industry, his passion for the creative sector and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the students was clearly evident. Eddie has exceptional skills and a deep dedication which I observed as a driving force behind the success of the King’s Academy Youth Theatre. He stands as a proud ambassador for the Academy and the arts industry, nurturing young talent and ensuring the continued growth and excellence of its Youth Theatre.

In a dazzling celebration of 20 years of musical theatre, the audience was taken on a nostalgic and heartwarming journey through the academy’s rich production history. From the cobbled streets of Victorian London to the whimsical world of fairy tales, each number was a tribute to the talent, creativity, and passion that has defined the academy’s legacy.

The evening opened with a vibrant and creatively choreographed number from the 2004 production of Oliver, a perfect choice to set the tone. The energy continued with a charming rendition of Tallulah from Bugsy Malone, followed by the iconic title number from Hello, Dolly! (2006), where feathered fans and four standout performers, Violet Renwick, Lily Conwell, Isobel Penketh, and Maddie Atkinson brought Dolly Levi to life with flair.

The 2007 nod to Elvis Presley’s army induction featured the cheeky and energetic number “Kids”, while 2008 transported us to the hills of Austria with Ava Beech leading a delightful performance of Do-Re-Mi from The Sound of Music.

The 2009 Godspell number “Day by Day” was a standout, emotionally resonant and beautifully signed by the cast, creating a powerful and inclusive moment. From there, we journeyed to Imperial Russia with a touching rendition of Matchmaker from Fiddler on the Roof (2011), and revisited Oliver! in 2012 with a soulful performance of “As Long as He Needs Me”.

A special mention goes to Noah Purvis, who confidently embodied Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the 2013 Guys and Dolls number Sit Down, You’re Rocking’ the Boat, supported by a lively chorus. Well Done Noah it is one of my favourite numbers form the show and you delivered it well.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream was a live scene of The Mechanicals when they first meet. Led by Katie O’Connor as Quince. This live scene showcased the impressive set design and acting. That same year, the cast brought the gritty orphanage of Annie Jr. to life with the musical number “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” complete with sharp choreography and lovely vocals.

Lily Conwell delivered a stunning solo number “Tale as Old as Time” from the 2016 production of Beauty and the Beast, a confident and graceful performance. A first-class performance led by Violet Renwick in the musical number “Good Morning” with her tap-dancing routine which brought infectious energy and charm to the classic number from the academy’s 2014 production of Singing in the Rain. I loved the energy from the group and a very funny interpretation from the 2017 production of Alice in Wonderland with the musical number "Zip a Dee Doo Daa". This was followed by Dylann Bone who led the cast with the great number "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious from the production of Mary Poppins.

The audience was treated to another nostalgic moment with a video clip from the academy’s 2018 production of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The visuals and performances captured in the footage reminded everyone of the magic and imagination that production brought to the stage. Following that, the energy soared with a show-stopping number from the 2021 production of Matilda Jr, “Revolting Children” led by the dynamic Abigail Price, the cast delivered a high-octane performance that had the audience cheering and clapping. There was absolutely nothing “rotten” about these young performers, their confidence, choreography, and charisma lit up the stage and brought the house down.

We Will Rock You is a fantastic choice for youth performers, and the cast truly rose to the occasion. The number “Another One Bites the Dust” was a standout performance, led by the incredibly talented Maddie Atkinson, whose powerful vocal delivery commanded the stage. The performance was further elevated by a slick, high-energy choreographed routine that perfectly captured the rebellious spirit of the musical.

Everyone loves the film The Wizard of Oz, Violet Renwick delivered a profoundly moving rendition of this Judy Garland classic “Somewhere over the Rainbow.” Her performance was tender and emotionally rich, with exceptional control over tone and phrasing. Violet’s ability to convey the longing and hope within the song captivated the audience, making it one of the most heartfelt moments of the evening.

To conclude this unforgettable evening, the cast brought us right up to date with a rousing performance from the academy’s 2024 production of Sister Act. The musical number “Spread the Love” was the perfect finale number, uplifting, energetic, and full of heart. Violet Renwick shone in the lead vocalist of Deloris Van Cartier, bringing charisma and vocal strength to the stage, while Dylann Bone delivered a stunning performance as Mother Superior, her vocals soaring with grace, strength, and emotion. Supported by the full cast, this final number was a celebration of unity, joy, and the transformative power of music. It was a fitting end to a remarkable journey through 20 years of productions; there was not a single person who left the auditorium without a smile on their face and a lump in their throat.

This concert was more than a showcase, it was a heartfelt tribute to two decades of dedication, talent, and community. Each number was performed with enthusiasm and care, reminding us of the power of theatre to inspire, entertain, and bring people together. The King's Academy Youth Theatre has set a shining example of what can be achieved when young people are empowered to express themselves through the arts. We are thrilled to have them as part of NODA North and look forward to supporting their continued success, a massive well done to the Academy and to the students.

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