The call for a ‘back to basis’ approach in schools by the Manx and British governments is one that chimes with Gale Force theatre school, says its founder and director Barbara Gale.
‘From the day we opened our doors nearly 25 years ago Gale Force has always maintained that basic training is fundamental to developing young people’s skills. It’s an approach that always pays dividends in the end,’ said the four-time Cleveland medallist.
Her strategy wins out time and time again with Gale Force students scoring consistently high marks in their exams. Most recently 18 students achieved 100 per cent in exams set by west Sussex-based New Era Academy, a set of results that included no fewer than seven distinctions and 13 merits. ‘It’s a truly amazing result and one that bears out my long-held belief that it’s only through sound training and discipline delivered in a caring fun-filled environment can young people realise their full potential.’
Students were tasked to study one of two authors from a list including David Walliams, Michael Bond and Michael Morpurgo and a poem from a choice of two writers, among who were Berlie Doherty and Kit Wright, all selected by New Era Academy. Along with reading from their chosen works students were interviewed about their selections, while older candidates were given a sight reading challenge to demonstrate their understanding of the written word.
The session also provided the opportunity for four students to take their musical theatre exams with Timmy Chan, 12, sitting grade one with a selection from ‘Oliver!’, his sister Jenny and Erica Elvizia, both 14, performing songs from Walt Disney productions and passing with merit at grade three level, and 16-year-old Lauren Whitfield gaining a distinction at grade five level with the songs and life of Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber. All were accompanied by Wendy McDowell on piano.
Mrs Gale added: ‘And a special mention must go to 12-year-old Francesca Warren who scored the highest mark of the day, 90, for work judged by New Era to be “of an exceptionally high standard for one so young…beautifully shaped with excellent use of pitch and pause”.
‘School may be out now, but at Gale Force there’s still much work going on behind the scenes in preparation for our concert at the Erin Arts Centre on Sunday December 1st to launch our 25th anniversary. A quarter of a century is a magnificent achievement, but it’s only been possible thanks to the unfailing support of the Gale Force team, our volunteers, parents and of course, all the wonderful students down through the years whose enthusiasm and dedication to the performing arts have helped us reach this fantastic landmark in our history.’
Photo - Francesca Warren, 12, scored the highest mark, 90, among Gale Force students who sat exams set by west Sussex-based New Era Academy. Picture Andrew Barton.
