West End on Demand offered students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from top professionals, experience world-class musicals, and bond with peers in the heart of London’s famed West End, the city's renowned theater district known for its vibrant performances of musicals and plays.
As soon as we got off the airplane, we embarked on a detailed tour of London, the bit of exercise helping combat jet lag. We explored iconic landmarks such as Kensington Palace, Big Ben, the St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel (where scenes from Harry Potter were filmed), and the Victoria Memorial. Afterward, we visited Covent Garden, where we met up with another Project Week group trekking through London, immersing ourselves in a lively cultural exchange.
The week was packed with exciting workshops led by West End performers. On the second day of the trip, we went to a “Wicked”-themed workshop led by Aimee Hodnett, a current cast member of “Wicked” on the West End. Next, we participated in a Stage Combat Workshop with Claire Llewellyn, who taught us techniques to create the illusion of a fight on stage.
Other workshops included a “Moulin Rouge” session with Charlotte Gooch, who plays Nini in the current West End production, and a “Les Misérables” workshop with Michael Baxter, where we belted our hearts out to “At the End of the Day.” We also had a “Matilda” workshop taught by Charlotte Scott, where we danced to the iconic track “Revolting Children,” and a “Mean Girls” workshop led by Holly Willock, an ensemble member in the current West End production.
Evenings were dedicated to watching breathtaking West End performances. We attended “Les Misérables” at the Sondheim Theatre; “Richard II,” where we saw Jonathan Bailey, who played the title role; “Matilda” at the Cambridge Theatre; “Wicked” at the Apollo Victoria Theatre; “Mean Girls” at the Savoy Theatre; and a surprise musical performance of “Moulin Rouge.” These productions showcased London’s theatrical prowess, inspiring us with unforgettable acting, intricate costume designs, and powerful singing. Additionally, we had a tour of the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane, gaining behind-the-scenes knowledge of an iconic London venue.
Beyond the theater, we had time to visit London shops, have afternoon tea at Drury Lane, enjoy traditional British cuisine, and visit notable locations like Market Halls Victoria. Upper School chemistry teachers Jonty Faulkner and Julie Plewa’s extensive planning of the experience deepened our appreciation of the performing arts and fostered strong friendships with our peers, offering an unforgettable adventure and a remarkable Project Week.
