MTI or ‘Music Theatre International’ are the international rights holders of many popular musicals and plays. In particular, they provide Junior (Jr) versions of well-known musicals that are appropriate to younger age groups. As Packwood licensed ‘Oliver Jr’ for our senior production at the end of last year, we were able to take part in the MTI Junior Theatre Festival which took place at the Birmingham ICC on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May.
Ten Form 7 and 8 pupils rehearsed in their own time on Monday evenings to enable them to perform a short excerpt from our version of Oliver Jr to be adjudicated by professional directors and other top industry professionals. Pupils received live feedback from the adjudication panel and then worked with one of the adjudicators to redirect part of a scene. Each school watched one another’s adjudication and feedback to pick up top tips and also enjoy one another’s work.
The group worked incredibly hard during their warm up slot and showed great team work and tenacity to perform in front of a large audience. Oliver started Packwood’s extract with some acapella singing of ‘Food Glorious Food’ which he was commended for by the adjudicators for starting in such a confident way. The team were also praised for their “big sound” and it was noted that every single performer was working hard to tell the story.
After the adjudications, the group headed back to the theatre where they had started the day to watch the ‘new works showcases’ which were performances of new musicals being released this year for first performance by school and amateur groups. These included ‘How to Train your Dragon Jr’, ‘Trolls Jr’ and ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Jr’.
In the afternoon, the children attended an acting workshop based on the brand new musical ‘How to Train your Dragon’, a choreography workshop led by several current members of the current West End cast of The Lion King and finally, a singing workshop led by prominent Musical Director, Chris Ma focused on music from the musical, Wicked. Chris has also participated in a question and answer session earlier in the day to give children an idea of what being a professional Musical Director involves.
Towards the end of the day, excitement was mounting as we approached the awards ceremony based on the earlier adjudications. We were looking forward to watching Isis and Atticus who had been selected to perform in the awards ceremony and we were also treated to a performance by professional West End performer, Rob Houchen. The team were absolutely thrilled to receive an award for ‘Outstanding Achievement in Ensemble Work’ reflecting their excellent energy and teamwork on stage. Minutes later, the whole team were delighted to congratulate Felix who was one of the few performers selected from all schools on the day for an individual “Outstanding Performance Award”. Both awards are incredible achievements and we are so proud of all the children for their performances, but also their conduct and respect for other performers and creatives on the day. As a group, we were approached and commended by event staff showing the children’s commitment to The Packwood Way.
The children commented on the amazing atmosphere and opportunity and we hope it will be something for them to remember for a long time to come. Many thanks to all the parents and staff that made this opportunity possible.
