Mansfield student's 'eyes opened' to theatre as school studies arts for first time in years

Student’s at a Mansfield school which had not studied performing arts in six years, have had their eyes opened to the theatre.
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About 90 Year 9 Queen Elizabeth's Academy students were taken for a tour around Mansfield Palace Theatre on Leeming Street, as their school started a new partnership with the theatre.

They also took part in a physical theatre workshop by a ‘professional practitioner’.

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The school, which is part of the Diverse Academies, started teaching the performing arts in September as Kimberley Willmot, the new head teacher, took up her role.

Students from Queen Elizabeth's Academy at the theatre.Students from Queen Elizabeth's Academy at the theatre.
Students from Queen Elizabeth's Academy at the theatre.

Laura Burridge, head of performing arts said the school is "excited" about the changes and that in February it will host its first whole school play.

She said: "It is a really big time of change for us at QE.

"The school started teaching drama and music again in September.

“The students should have the right to learn about the theatre and how it impacts on life and world around us.

Students from Queen Elizabeth's Academy at the theatre.Students from Queen Elizabeth's Academy at the theatre.
Students from Queen Elizabeth's Academy at the theatre.
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“Many moons ago there was a partnership between the school and the theatre – and it is wonderful to see this reignited again. Knowledge in the arts is a really important part of our students overall education.”

The students are currently learning about ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time’ which follows a young boy with autism as he investigates a mystery.

The play which is a smash-hit is the winner of seven Olivier Awards and five Tony Awards including ‘Best Play’.

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