Performers put through their paces
A NEW generation of performers at a Greenbank Preparatory School in Cheadle Hulme were judged by a drama expert.
Actor Garth Jones volunteered to adjudicate at the school’s annual speech and drama awards.
Garth has spent nearly 50 years as an actor, drama school owner, teacher and government advisor, advocating the importance of clear oral communication as an essential element of education.
He said: “Whatever walk of life, whatever profession, you will increasingly need to perform.
“If you can communicate clearly and confidently, you have more chance of success.
“Drilling young people in the art of speech develops the necessary skills set and, most importantly, builds confidence and I believe passionately that all children should be given the opportunity to perform and the opportunity to speak in public throughout their education.”
Former professional actress Adele Firth, who is now head of drama at Greenbank, said: “I was a young pupil in Garth’s drama school and I owe any success I have had to his inspirational methods.
“Like Garth did for me, I aim to ensure the children enjoy every moment on stage and, as well as learning the basic skills of diction, projection and presence, gain the sort of confidence to stand up and say their piece when others shrink under pressure.”