How Lizzy balances academic ambition and her love of Drama at Sedbergh
Studying four A-levels in History, Latin, English and Chemistry, Lizzy has ambitions that may lead her towards a career in law or forensics. Yet alongside her academic commitments, Drama has become an important part of her life at Sedbergh.
Having first stepped onto the stage during an inter-House drama competition in her first week at the School, Lizzy has since performed in six productions, including taking on the role of Cosette in *Les Misérables*. She is now preparing to play Maria in the School’s forthcoming production of *West Side Story*.
For Lizzy, Drama provides a welcome break from the classroom, while developing confidence, communication skills and friendships across the School.
She shares how performing has shaped her experience at Sedbergh, how she balances rehearsals with her studies and why she believes academically ambitious pupils should make time for Drama.
Academic ambitions
What subjects are you studying in Sixth Form, which do you particularly enjoy, and what are your plans beyond Sedbergh?
I am currently still studying four A-levels: History, Latin, English and Chemistry, with the intention of dropping one of them in place of an EPQ shortly. At the minute, I’m particularly enjoying History as I find both the content and analysis very interesting, and while I’m undecided about university and career choices at this time, I’m drawn towards a career in law or forensics.
With a demanding academic timetable, why is it important to you to make time for Drama?
I’ve always seen Drama as a break from academics, a chance to replace classroom learning with singing, dancing, acting, performing and getting to know people from all different years!
Your relationship with Drama
How did you first become involved in Drama at Sedbergh, and what has kept you interested?
Before I joined Sedbergh, I was active in all of my old school’s productions. In my very first week of Year 9, when I had only just arrived from a day school 300 miles away, I took part in the inter-House drama competition, representing Lupton for the first time in The Toad and the Snail (I was the little boy), and surprisingly received the ‘Best Actress Award’ in my year. Not knowing anyone, I was worried I’d make a fool of myself, but in reality, it was the support of my housemates that kickstarted my Sedbergh Drama career! The endless stream of exciting productions from then on had me hooked, and I have been in six shows to date.
What attracted you to audition for West Side Story, and what has the experience of playing a leading role been like?
I am a huge fan of West Side Story and thought the role of Maria, with its vocal range that fit within mine and the opportunity to act out strong emotion, really appealed to me. The first six weeks of rehearsals so far have been great fun, and I’m very grateful to be trusted by Mrs Pye to occupy this central role. The biggest challenge so far has been the dancing, something I’m not naturally gifted at but which is coming along with practice and lots of direction from the staff.
Skills beyond the stage
What have you learned through Drama that you think has helped you academically, or that might be valuable in your future studies and career?
I think being part of a drama production has helped me improve my confidence and public speaking abilities; should I have to present to an audience as part of my job in the future, I feel confident that I could communicate clearly and effectively (boardroom, courtroom, emergency room, etc.). I also think the teamwork aspect of putting on a show teaches a lot about how to collaborate and coordinate, especially in a big group number where everyone is relying on each other and convincing character interaction is key.
Preparing for a major production requires considerable commitment. How do you balance rehearsals and performances with your academic responsibilities?
The play is strategically placed at the beginning of the year so there is no overlap with big exams. However, I often bring work along with me to rehearsal to do during my time off stage. Many teachers are very understanding of how much time is taken up by the play and often provide extensions, especially during play week, as well as sending over any missed classwork, so I never feel too swamped!
Drama at Sedbergh
What makes being part of the Drama Department at Sedbergh a rewarding experience?
Putting on a show at Sedbergh feels like being part of a professional production; the resources, direction, choreography, tech, props and costumes are all of an incredible standard. Also, the opportunity to get to know pupils from all other Houses and year groups always makes for an excitingly diverse group, and the amount of voluntary help from staff of all departments is remarkable.
Looking back at your involvement in Drama at Sedbergh, is there a particular moment, performance or achievement you’re especially proud of?
I’d say my first production in Year 9, Grease, was one of the highlights of my Drama involvement at Sedbergh. Even though I was just in the junior ensemble, it was such a great first opportunity to get to know other drama-inclined pupils and get a taste of how a production runs here without the pressure of a main role. Two years later, I was entrusted with a lead role in Les Misérables, Cosette, and that is the one I am most proud of as the songs were very challenging, and the show was very long!
Looking ahead
Although you’re not currently planning to pursue Drama professionally, do you think it will continue to play a part in your life beyond Sedbergh?
I hope to continue being part of amateur drama societies at university because I really enjoy being a part of a big production, and I think it’ll be a great opportunity to meet new people when I eventually move on from Sedbergh.
Do you think you would be a different person if you hadn’t been involved in Drama at Sedbergh? If so, how?
In short, yes! I think putting myself out there from the get-go allowed me to build my confidence in not only performing but also learning how to shake off my inhibitions in a group of new people, which is always a handy skill to have at Sedbergh where you’re constantly stepping outside of your comfort zone.
What would you say to an academically ambitious pupil who is considering getting involved in Drama but isn’t sure they have the time, confidence or experience?
I’d say the sooner you get involved, the better; start small and build it up, and you will enjoy it more the more immersed you become. Starting in Year 9 would be my greatest advice, but if you haven’t already, there’s no time like the present to begin your Sedbergh Drama journey!