After an 18 month break from big productions, Step On Stage Productions is back with Michelle Magorian’s classic, Goodnight Mr Tom. Set against the backdrop of world war two, the play tells the story of Mr Tom, a slightly grumpy old man who finds himself taking in a young evacuee called William Beech. Mr Tom, has led a quiet life, keeping himself to himself since his wife Rachel died, over 40 years ago. He begrudgingly takes in William, but soon grows very fond of the boy and realises that he’s had a tough life back in London. Mr Tom goes about trying to help him read and write and make friends. But when William is called back to London by his mother, things take a rather more sinister turn. We have a very enthusiastic and talented cast of young actors who were auditioned for the production earlier this term. We also have a super keen group of young actors who have set up a marketing company to learn new skills marketing the show and getting involved with radio, adverts, flyers, blogs and social media. |
The production is being directed by experienced theatre practitioner, writer, director and examiner Emma Louise Tinniswood. She studied at Royal Holloway and The Central School of Speech and Drama. Co director is actor and producer, Maria Austen who studied at Royal Holloway and the Lee Strasberg Institute in New York. They are assisted by an experienced team of industry professionals, many of whom have worked with the company for a number of years. Past students have also returned to help with the production. Past students Millie Beazley is Assistant director and she is currently in her first year at Arts Educational studying Acting. Meanwhile Maddie Taylor is taking on the role of Assistant Stage Manager while she studies at Kingston College for Theatre Production. Emma founded Step On Stage back in 2005 and the theatre company in 2008 with a view to creating a youth theatre where young people could work with industry professionals and explore a wide range of plays, classics, new writing, musicals and Shakespeare in local and professional venues. The philosophy for the company is not just to put on plays, but to teach young people about the theatre and the industry and to provide them with a wide range of skills, experiences and memories. A professional company for professional young performers. |
As well as rehearsing the play the cast member are exploring about life in world war two, looking at themes that are portrayed in the play such as friendship, loss, death, fear, bravery and love. The cast members are also learning new skills such as puppetry, marketing, blog writing and research. Some of our older students are also using these skills as part of their GCSE Drama and Media studies work. 25 young actors aged 10 to 17 are busy rehearsing this wonderful play, being performed at the Hampton Hill Theatre from 10th-12th January 2019. Tickets are on sale now from www.ticketsource.co.uk.steponstageproductions January 10th - 12th evening performances at 7.30pm. January 12th Matinee at 2.30pm. Specials Schools discounts available for block bookings so please email is for further information [email protected] |