REVIEW: Fantastic reception for school's Evita production

Issued with photo: Cast of Evita

Tumultuous applause marked the end of the last drama production of the year for students at the Wey Valley School, as their rendition of the Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice musical Evita came to a close.

Director Ed Hintze, who teaches music at Wey Valley and directed the show, said: “The students were outstanding, and deserved the fantastic reception their audience gave them.

“They’ve shown great commitment despite a punishing rehearsal schedule, and we were privileged to have some really promising young actors and singers in our cast, who convincingly captured the character of the era and the people.”

The musical tells the story of Eva Duarte who was to become the wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Perón, following her journey from humble beginnings to extraordinary wealth, power and iconic status, which ultimately led her to be heralded as the “spiritual leader of the nation” by the Argentine people.

Year 9 student, Emily Janes, played the role of Evita, with Jake Mould (Year 10) as Perón, and Jamie Dowell (Year 11) as Che Guevara.

Performing arts teacher, Steve Bullard, said: “What a powerful, fragile and dramatic voice Emily Janes has!

“You could sense the anticipation and joy in the audience with each rendition of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.”

Emily’s challenging duet with Jake Mould - “I’d be Surprisingly Good for You” – was equally well received.

Director Ed Hintze praised Jamie Dovell for his dynamic convication in the part of Che Guevara, saying he “controlled the stage” as he narrated, observed and orchestrated the rise and fall of Eva Perón.

Ed Hintze said: “A notable performance was also delivered by Sean Roberts in Year 10, as touring tango-singer Magaldi, while Maggie Ayles (Year 9) playing Perón’s discarded mistress delivered the well-known number “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” with heart-breaking clarity.”

Steve Bullard said: “This was a hugely entertaining piece of musical theatre.

“Ed Hintze, his technical assistant Ben Parker, and all the cast and crew should so be proud of what they have achieved.”

The chorus was led strongly by Shannon Parfitt and Stacey Paull (both Year 9), supported by Charlotte Kitching ,Shannon Goddard, Amy Cardy-Walters, Rachel Davis and Georgia Collins. Other cast members included Luke Britton, Francessca Longdon, Jack Hintze, and Ali Stevenson.

ENDS

Issued on behalf of the Wey Valley School and Wyvern Academy by Empica. For further information contact Nicki Sampson or Martin Powell on 01275 394400.