Performing Arts students head to the Big Apple

A Level students from the Centre of Excellence for Performing Arts at Cronton Sixth Form College visited New York to enhance their current studies, take in a Broadway show and see the many amazing sights the Big Apple has to offer.

After arriving in New York City the eager students were able to experience their new surroundings as they immediately set off to take in the excitement of Times Square and visit the top of the Empire State Building to see the world famous views of the city.

The second day was full of fascinating educational experiences. A Level Drama & Theatre students experienced a lecture in Musical Theatre at New York University and A level Dance students were given the amazing opportunity to observe a class at the world famous Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance.

This was followed by participation in their own masterclass taught by ex-principal Graham dancer Tadej Brdnik who was able to bring to life the topics currently studied by the dance students.

The evening was spent being serenaded over dinner at Ellen’s Stardust Diner famous for its singing staff.
Day three began with ice skating in Central Park, before taking the Subway downtown for a ferry trip to see the Statue of Liberty and a poignant visit to the 9/11 memorial site. The day ended with an amazing performance of Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre on Broadway where the students were mesmerised by the stunning production.

A final day of shopping completed the trip before flying back home full of memories and inspiration for our next performances.

Head of Creative & Performing Arts Sharon Graham said of the visit, “The Performing Arts department have visited New York every two years for over 10 years and always have an amazing time. However, the unique experiences at New York University and the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance mean that the educational value of this trip has surpassed all previous visits and we are already looking forward to planning our next visit in 2020.”

A Level dance student Eilidh Thomson formerly of Wade Deacon High School said about the trip “We all had a fantastic time; the trip was enjoyable as well as educational and my highlights were Ellen’s Stardust Diner and Wicked on Broadway. I can’t wait to visit New York again!”