Framingham Earl High pupils campaign to repair theatre

Framingham Earl High School’s theatre is in a sorry state. The lighting mostly doesn’t work and the few that do work trip the main fuse board when used.  

On top of this, the stage has been used as a dumping ground for old Covid equipment and other things, and the curtain has gone missing. 

The theatre is in need of a new lighting rig and curtains. Pictured: Alice Treby, year 10, Oliver Kelly year 10 and Ade Slack, director of drama (Image: Denise Bradley)

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The pupils decided they didn’t want their theatre to decay any further and went on a fundraising spree with the aim of bringing back the coveted school musical.  

Year 10s Alice Treby and Oliver Kelly joined forces with year 11s Lucy Bettle and Lucy Wright to produce ideas and work on funding applications to save their theatrical boards. 

Pupils do get performing opportunities, but not in their own theatre. Pictured: Alice Treby, year 10, Oliver Kelly year 10 (Image: Denise Bradley)

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Alice said: "It's something we've wanted for ages. We want to put on bigger plays and more well-known productions such as musicals using the school stage. 

“The most enjoyable fundraising activity we’ve done is splatting the teachers with water for money at school, it got lots of people involved.” 

So far, the pupils have raised £20,000 and just have £5,000 to go. With the money they plan to fit a new lighting rig, new curtains and repaint the theatre. 

Pupils hosted a splat the teacher event to raise money. Pictured: Ade Slack, Director of drama, Alice Treby, year 10, Oliver Kelly year 10 (Image: Denise Bradley)

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Director of drama, Ade Slack, said: “From my own personal experience, I loved performing in shows when younger.  

"There is something special about a group of people working together to create a production. 

“It's been heartwarming to see the care and dedication the pupils have given to this.” 

There are many talented students in the school, and a musical would bring them together. Pictured: Alice Treby, year 10, Oliver Kelly year 10 (Image: Denise Bradley)

DONATE: Creating a Theatre Space at Framingham Earl High

Work is planned for early 2024 and pupils are already talking about their wishes for the first musical.  

Alice said: “I hope the first musical is Matilda, there are many roles for older and younger students and it's well-known.” 

You can support the pupils at Justgiving.com.