UAL students’ powerful final performance: justice, friendship & suffering

The teaching team behind our UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts would like to offer a huge congratulations to our talented Year 13 students on their outstanding final production, The Welkin.

This powerful and challenging piece marked the culmination of their two-year Sixth Form course, and we couldn’t be prouder of the creativity, maturity and commitment they brought to the stage at the New Diorama Theatre near Regent’s Park.

Set in 18th-century rural England, The Welkin explores profound themes such as justice, female friendship, bodily autonomy, and the suffering of women in a patriarchal society.

The story centres on Sally Poppy, a young woman sentenced to death for murder. However, she claims to be pregnant — a possibility that, if confirmed, would spare her life. The decision is left to a jury of twelve local women, who must confront not only Sally’s fate but also their own beliefs and experiences.

Our students handled this emotionally complex material with sensitivity and confidence, delivering performances that were mature, thought-provoking and deeply moving. Their final show was a true showcase of the skills they have developed throughout the course — from vocal technique and physical theatre to ensemble work and character development. It is no surprise that so many of them have secured places at top drama schools across the country!

Libby S, who is heading to Mountview to study Musical Theatre next academic year, said: “I’ve loved the UAL course; it’s really pushed me. We’ve tackled so many types of drama and theatre, and I’ve learned so much.”

Well done to all involved in this fantastic production. We can’t wait to see what this talented cohort of KAS students goes on to achieve next!

Take a look a more pictures from the students’ powerful performance of The Welkin in the gallery below…