Acrobatic dramais justoutof thisworld

Aerial artists have been using Beaconhurst School’s Sports Hall to rehearse the worldpremiere of an all-action thriller being performed at the Macrobert Arts Centre next week.

A collaboration between the school’s expressive arts department and the Macrobert saw renowned director Mark Murphy and members of his V-Tol Dance Company transform the hall during rehearsals for drama ‘Out of This World’.

Pupils were able to witness trapeze artists in action and learn about lighting, costume and set design from the backstage crew as performers prepared for the show at the independent Bridge of Allan school.

The production, featuring breathtaking aerial movement and interactive projection, takes place at the Macrobert on April 21-22.

Alison Marshall, Beaconhurst’s director of expressive arts, said: “This has been an exciting collaboration which has given pupils the chance to get close to an amazing production during the runup to its world premiere.

“Hosting the rehearsals is part of the school strengthening its partnership with the Macrobert and has been a unique opportunity for pupils to observe a huge amount of behind-the-scenes theatrical activity.

“It’s been great for them to see the performers working from their harnesses on their aerial acrobatics and being able to ask questions and learn about technical matters such as sound, lighting and set design.

“The partnership has been particularly helpful for S5 and S6 pupils who are studying expressive arts and looking at careers in creative industries.”

The performers needed a building with high ceilings to practise their acrobatics and Beaconhurst allowed them to take over their sports hall for three weeks for daily practice.

In return, senior pupils were able to visit the set, learn about choreography and take part in question and answer sessions with members of the team including production manager Chris Hay and set and costumer designers.

Director Mark Murphy said: “As a theatre-maker, the two most important ingredients in making a show are time and space.