Great Yarmouth Charter Academy students gain valuable experience in the music industry through behind-the-scenes tour

Students at Great Yarmouth Charter Academy had an exciting opportunity to work alongside a technical rehearsal of a music band at the Drill House in Great Yarmouth. The Behind The Scenes Tour, which took place on Friday night of November 24th, provided eight students with valuable experience in Stage Management, Lighting and Sound Technology, Set and Costume Design, and Props. 

The students are part of the backstage crew of the academy's musical production of ‘Grease’, due to run for a week from Monday 12th to Friday 16th February 2024, and were offered this unique experience to support a music band, ‘Nebula Sun’ performing in the town. The students had a great time and several of them stayed to hear the music, even bringing their families along. 

The event was a huge success, with students gaining valuable experience and exposure to the world of music and entertainment. Several of the group expressed interest in getting involved in the Play Produce Promote project, an exciting new program of live music events that brings emerging new bands from around the UK and Great Yarmouth to the town. The program is in collaboration with Freshly Greated, Norwich Arts Centre, and Out There Arts - and our pupils continue to make a significant contribution to the ongoing work of the town’s festivals and community spaces for the arts, music and drama. 

Joe Edwards Gill, Curriculum Lead for Performing Arts said,

"Here at Great Yarmouth Charter Academy, we are dedicated to providing as many opportunities as possible for our students to develop their interests and skills in stage management and public performance. We have a huge range of opportunities planned for this year, and we are working closely with Freshly Greated to ensure that our students have access to the best possible resources and experiences."  

The event was followed by a showcase of emerging talent in the town on Saturday, December 2nd, at The Empire. A free event showcasing musical acts, including ex-student and Alumni, Bailey Holmes. Gary Standley, the programme director said,

“This is a great opportunity for Charter’s students to not only enjoy live music but also to meet members of the Play Produce Promote project informally, and to explore opportunities to get involved as performers or backstage crew. We continue to work closely with the school’s leadership team to integrate what we can offer with pupils’ own talents and interests in public performance. So, come along and be a part of this exciting project!”