'Awaken' Showcases Amazing Alleyn’s Dance Talent

The week got off to an energetic and joyous start as the Alleyn’s School Dance Show Awaken burst onto the MCT stage over two nights. Pupils from across the school produced, danced, choreographed an impressive programme of ensembles, styles and themes. All the performances were choreographed by pupils and/or teachers and presented interpretations of restless nights, bipolar disorder, rebellion, identity and the bustling city of London, to name a few.

A riotous performance by a Year 7 group opened the show on Monday 28 March with a number inspired by Matilda the Musical called ‘Revolting Children’. Shakespeare was an inspiration for ‘Out Dammed Spot’ by Year 11s and ‘Persephone’ drew on the famous myth of Hades and Persephone, also by Year 11s. There were many other influences and the creativity and talent in producing original choreography were truly amazing.

Anyone who was feeling at all sluggish before the performance was certainly woken up by the outstanding performances. From Jazz, modern dance and street dance to ballet and musical theatre, there was not a subject or style that was off limit for our fantastic dancers, all 138 of them!

A huge thanks goes to Director of Dance Mrs Natalie Demain who worked tirelessly with the pupils throughout the year and also to all the collaborators in this gargantuan effort including the Dance Department, Drama Department, AV team and particularly Ruth Seager who was Acting Head of Dance during Mrs Demain’s maternity leave.