Drama
Drama lessons are defined by a fast-paced, dynamic and aspirational approach to both teaching and learning. Students are encouraged to make theatre they are passionate about, to be inquisitive and adventurous in their thinking and playful and ambitious in their creative execution.
A wealth of opportunities
We are continuously told that the breadth and depth we offer in terms of genre and style, and the standard we manage to produce, sets us apart from our competitors. The Seckford Theatre provides an exceptional space for students to realise their creative vision and all practical examination work is supported by the Theatre’s technical team.
Creative expression, community and fun are some of the many reasons why students get involved in the varied and exciting programme of co-curricular opportunities offered by the Drama department. These currently include:
- Whole School Musical
- Years 7 and 8 Drama Club
- Year 7 and 8 Masterclasses (by invite)
- Year 9 Shakespeare on the Chapel Lawn
- Years 10 and 11 Production
- Sixth Form Production
- Sixth Form Summer Residency
(Historically this has included performing at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival) - LAMDA Showcase
State of the art technical facilities
With the Seckford Theatre’s state of the art technical facilities there are also opportunities for aspiring technicians to train under the professional guidance of our theatre technicians in lighting, sound, set-design and backstage support.
Our connections
Woodbridge School’s Drama department is associated with LAMDA, the oldest drama school in the United Kingdom, founded in 1861. It is also the largest statutory speech and drama award body in the country.
From Year 7 students are able to sign up for weekly LAMDA lessons, on their own or with a friend. This personal tutelage, delivered by our exceptional LAMDA staff, is a great way to develop performance skills whilst gaining confidence.
Our productions
You can view our memorable archive of trailers and reviews over the last decade by accessing our production archive below.
A complete list of productions from the last decade and the full variety the department offers, can be found on via the Seckford Theatre.
July 2024: The Two Gentlemen of Verona
February 2024: Little Shop of Horrors
November 2023: Jack Absolute Flies Again
July 2023: As You Like It
February 2023: A Monster Calls
November 2022: Romeo and Juliet
Special events
GCSE and A level Drama students get some outstanding opportunities to inspire their study and develop their craft as theatre makers and performers. These include:
- Watching professional theatre at some of the UK’s most well respected venues – The National Theatre, The Old Vic, Bridge Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe.
- Workshops with professional theatre companies such as GECKO, Frantic Assembly, Wise Children.
Notable alumni
Meet the staff
Gemma Mayes (Head of Drama)
Johnathan Williams (Assistant Head of Drama)
Rachel Edwards (Theatre Manager)
Gemma, Jonathan and Rachel have worked together for ten years. During that time they have significantly raised the academic profile of the department, with Drama consistently securing some of the highest academic results within the School. As a team they have produced 40 extra-curricular productions, introducing favourites such as Shakespeare on the chapel lawn and the Sixth Form summer residency, with performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. As a team they are passionate about inspiring the next generation of theatre makers and performers.
Vocal Masterclass for Drama Scholarship and Enrichment Students – October 2024
Year 12’s Theatre Trip Reports – September 2024
‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona’, Shakespeare On The Lawn Review
Meet Frankenstein’s Creature and De Lacey
Want to see for yourself?
In addition to our open days, we welcome visits from parents and children looking for the right foundation for life ahead. We’ll be happy to show you around and answer any questions you have about our School, staff and the support we offer our students.