Drama
Lancing offers a rich and varied programme of Drama, reflecting an illustrious cast of past pupils which includes Christopher Hampton, Sir David Hare and Sir Tim Rice.
Our 156-seat theatre, opened by Sir Tim in 1984, is an intimate yet versatile space, capable of different stage configurations, and complemented by the Cherry Hall drama studio which is used for smaller scale, workshop productions and exam pieces.
The school play or musical forms the centrepiece of each dramatic year. Recent large cast productions include Amadeus, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Coram Boy, Lady Windermere’s Fan, One Man Two Guv’nors, Guys & Dolls and Legally Blonde. There is also an open air theatre in the school grounds, seating 400, where the Founder’s Day play is performed each Summer Term. Houses regularly produce plays and the Donald Bancroft One Act playwriting competition offers a further outlet for dramatic creativity with pupils directing their own work.
Those interested in the technical aspects of theatre can join the stage team to learn about light and sound from our full-time Technical Manager, working up to designing and operating these elements for performance. Others can learn the art of stage make-up and wardrobe.
Drama at Lancing seeks to involve and engage all five year groups in collaborating with enthusiasm and commitment, and above all enjoyment, to make great theatre, whether as actors or technicians. Across a typical nine-week rehearsal period, a close-knit Company is formed, building confidence, experience and friendships, and creating enduring and cherished memories.
MR MATT SMITH, DRAMA DEPARTMENT
Our facilities
Drama News
Lancing Shines in Guys & Dolls
Thank you to our two pupil reviewers for their fabulous reviews of our recent production of Guys & Dolls: This ambitious production of Guys & Dolls was full of energy and charm, imbued with a clear love for the classic 1950 material. From opening number to curtain call, it showcased the remarkable talent of the […]
Sir Christopher Hampton Returns to Lancing College for Annual Film Festival
Written by Mr Matt Smith, Director of Drama and Dance It was a joy and a privilege to welcome back distinguished screenwriter, playwright, translator, director – and alumnus – Sir Christopher Hampton (Second’s 1959 – 1963) for the second House Film Gala in early October. The occasion celebrates the originality, creativity and talent of Lancing […]
Bringing ‘The Dumb Waiter’ to Life, by Albie and Monty T
Written by Albie and Monty T Performing in The Dumb Waiter together was an interesting experience for both of us. We’ve obviously spent nearly our whole lives together as identical twins, so having that as a groundwork made the initial rehearsals in our living room relatively easy. Really interesting, unusual theatre – the actors were […]
Film and Photo Gallery
