The annual Chiswick School Arts festival on the evening of Wednesday 27th June run by the school’s Parents Teachers Association was a fantastic success. Featuring a range of talent in Music, Dance, Art and Drama, the event attracted around 500 visitors. The audience had a choice of five performance stages and two exhibitions. A delicious Caribbean style meal was laid on too.

The festival was opened by a striking sculpture parade in which students wore their Indian influenced sculptures on their heads and marched to accompanying Samba drumming.

A first was a performance by Strand on the Green Primary School African drumming group. Showing no fear they played on an outdoor stage and attracted an appreciative crowd with their tight, well co-ordinated playing. It is hoped the event will feature more primary school items in the future.

Such was the quality of the work, it was hard to pick out highlights as the audience welcomed new talent as well as saying good bye to students who have featured in several Chiswick School events. The steel pan items had the audience moving to the beats and the orchestra excelled with its rendition of The Entertainer and a Hungarian Dance. Year 9 dramatists fully engaged the audience with their creative piece, and ensemble dance was presented in both Street and Bollywood styles. Phoebe Harris sang her heart out in her valedictory performance to huge cheers. Robert Bautista year 7 delivered a moving vocal solo. Marta Glyn Blanco performed her mesmerising flamenco routine.

Powerful and striking images were a feature of the Photography exhibition and the A level Art exhibition contained intricate painting, 3D work and animation. ‘I was astonished by the diverse range of artistic talent on show’, said Ms. Lee parent of a year 10 stJune 29, 2012nd the evening and the behaviour of the students in an informal atmosphere was excellent’.

The annual event is funded and co-ordinated by the school’s incredible PTA . ‘Its amazing what can be achieved when schools work together with parents. Team work delivers fantastic results’, said Chair of the PTA Rachel Clare.

‘The contribution of the PTA to school life is part of the reason why Chiswick School is such a vibrant place. They provide funding for trips, clubs, arts activities and extra equipment which all benefit the students. We are very grateful’, said James Whiting, Deputy Head in closing the festival.

 

June 28, 2012