Maisie Newman Ignites Creative Sparks

General Moreton Senior

Bristol Old Vic Director, Maisie Newman Ignites Creative Sparks for Theatre Studies Pupils at Moreton Hall.

A Level Theatre Studies pupils kick off the academic year at Moreton Hall with a week-long course on devising theatre, delivered by award-winning Bristol Old Vic director, Maisie Newman.

The bespoke course was created to enable pupils studying Drama to get first-hand experience on how to devise original theatre, using the concepts and ideas of theatre companies and established practitioners. One of the companies that the pupils explored in detail was Gecko Theatre Company, which is known for their use of physical theatre and unique creative process.

Head of Drama, Michael Jenkins said:

“Maisie has been so generous with her time and energy during her time with us and it has been inspiring to see her deliver superbly resourced and exciting sessions for our pupils. Starting the new academic year in this way has been brilliant for our pupils.

“We pride ourselves in the Drama department on being industry focussed and being able to offer the very best opportunities to our pupils. As we progress into the Autumn term, planning is in place to ensure that this focus and offering continues.”

Newman has a wealth of experience in the arts and has recently directed theatre at Bristol Old Vic, The National Youth Theatre, and Candide for The Scottish Opera, a production that was nominated for a UK Theatre Award. In addition to directing, Maisie is also an experienced teacher and workshop leader and has worked for leading institutions such as Oxford University, York University and Bristol School of Acting.

Summarising her week at Moreton Hall, Newman said:

“I am astonished by the level of talent that the girls at Moreton hold. They are fearless and boundless with their energy and enthusiasm for the subject.

“Naturally, I had preconceived opinions about how A Level pupils would respond to what I had planned for them, however, the groups that I worked with blew my mind with what they were capable of. I would not be surprised if I ended up directing this talented bunch in a professional production.

“Without question, I wholeheartedly endorse Moreton Hall’s Drama department to any aspiring young artist or creative in the world of performing arts. The calibre of the staff and the state-of-the-art facilities are nothing short of astounding.”

Moreton Hall is currently a finalist in The Independent School of The Year award for Drama, Performing Arts and Music. To find out more about the Drama department, and the school as a whole, visit: www.moretonhall.org/drama