school band

Guys & Dolls rocks the Phoenix Theatre!

9th January 26

A stage scene from a theatrical production featuring several performers in costume. At the centre, one performer wears a bright yellow checked suit with a purple tie and white hat, standing arm-in-arm with another performer in a yellow gingham dress and a brown fur stole. Other performers in similar yellow dresses and fur stoles stand in the background. The stage floor has a street-map design, and the backdrop includes street signs for Times Square, Broadway, and a stop sign, as well as a diner sign reading “Mindy’s Diner.”

This year’s Upper School show took over the re-vamped Phoenix Theatre for three nights last term, with a show-stopping production of Guys and Dolls – an experience described as “unbelievable” by one student performer.

The Drama and Music departments worked tirelessly to create a truly memorable event. With stunning sets, stand-out performances, dazzling dancing and sensational singing, the show had the audience rapt from start to finish.

“Being in a show teaches you so much about teamwork”

Tamar L, one of our UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts students, wowed with her comedic portrayal of Nicely-Nicely Johnson.

She said: “Taking part in the show was an unbelievable experience. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed it.

A large group of performers seated and standing on stage, dressed in 1940s-style costumes. Several wear suits with wide lapels, patterned ties, and fedora hats, while others are in maroon uniforms resembling mission workers. Many performers have their hands pressed together in a prayer gesture. The background shows members of a live band with brass instruments, partially visible in dim lighting.

“Being in a show teaches you so much about group work, putting your trust in other people and how to be part of a team.”

The show’s impressive group dance numbers were choreographed by teacher Frances Smith, with help from Year 13 student Juno C.

“It was really fun to help out creating some of the numbers,” she said. “I wanted everyone to use their talents and create something they were really proud of.

A lively stage scene featuring a group of performers in bright red costumes dancing in a line, with their arms linked and raised. The dancers wear short red dresses or red shirts with yellow ruffled sleeves, paired with black shoes. On the left, two performers sit at a small table holding coconut drinks, dressed in tropical-style outfits, while another performer stands behind a tiki-style bar. The backdrop includes street signs for Times Square and Broadway, and the stage floor has a white street-map design. Warm lighting creates a vibrant, festive atmosphere. They are part of a performance of Guys & Dolls at The King Alfred School.

“I’m not taking Drama at A level, so it was hard fitting this around my studies – but worth it!”

With students running the show in the technical box, bossing the backstage area and joining the professional musicians in the band, the production was a triumph for the whole team – not just those on the stage.

With thanks to Emma Ziff for the photos. Take a look at more of her fantastic pictures in the gallery below. 

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