Felsted performs Goodnight Mister Tom

Harvey Alcott and Monty Jenkins in the roles of William Beech and Mister Tom

Felsted School took an educational look back at the Second World War, as young Felsted thespians treated family, friends and the local community to a compelling production of Goodnight Mister Tom.

The play was double cast and performed to sell-out audiences over four consecutive nights, with warmth, humour and some challenging topics addressed in equal amounts. The production was a wonderful example of teamwork from Felsted’s talented drama department, from the intricate set design to the make up, costumes, acting and stage direction.

Goodnight Mister Tom focuses largely on the evacuation of London’s children before the start of the Second World War, giving an excellent opportunity for Felsted’s younger drama students to take an important role alongside some regular faces who have acted in every production during their time at the school. One of the lead roles of Mister Tom was played by Upper Sixth pupil Thomas Newland, who was selected for the National Youth Music Theatre earlier this year, showing a great example to the younger cast of where their acting talents could take them.

Year 10 Nick Scofield, who played the main character, William Beech, on two nights commented: ‘Once you step through the doors to the stage and see the audience, the rush makes it all the more exciting. Seeing everything that you have rehearsed fall perfectly into place is spectacular.’

Lydia Townsend and Jiayin Guo as puppeteers of Sammy the dog

There are many opportunities for those interested in drama at Felsted, from theatre trips to regular school productions. Drama Scholarships are available to children from the age of 11 who are showing genuine talent and potential.More information can be found at www.felsted.org/DramaScholarships.