Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Animation comes to life in spectacular way
PUPILS at St Cyprian’s school took audiences on a wild ride as they performed Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR.
The musical, based on DreamWorks’ animated film Madagascar, follows Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and a group of hilarious penguins as they flee from their home in Central Park Zoo in New York and find themselves on an unforeseen journey.
Sofi Bergström, 10, who played Alex the Lion, said she enjoyed everything about the musical.
“I loved the rehearsals, singing, dancing, getting to know the other characters better and going onto stage and performing in front of an audience. The whole experience has boosted my confidence.”
Her schoolmate, Sienna Kuttel, who played King Julien XIII, said: “I was sad when the final show ended as I really loved every moment of the musical. Thank you to my drama and music teachers for making this happen.”
Music teacher at St Cyprian’s Tersia Harley said Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR was one of the most spectacular shows she had been involved with. “The girls were packed with energy and excitement. Each pupil knew exactly where they had to be and what they had to do. The set, created by Mrs Tara Lang and her assistants, was amazing.
“The slick movements of Ms Nicole
Wright and her backstage crew on the scene changes were absolutely amazing. From front of house to backstage they showed teamwork of a high calibre,” she said.
The production was set to take place two years ago but was postponed due to Covid-19.
Harley said the arts played a vital role in the growth of any pupil.
“It is the space where they can be free; become the character you are playing and, at the same time, we as teachers see them out of the context of the classroom.
“For each child, growth is different and the arts is the most natural way for them to step out of their comfort zone. It is hard work but the amount of fun you can have by ‘playing’ on stage is phenomenal,” she added.