Stanmore Frank Sparrow: Grunge and Grit At the end of 2017, performers from ‘The opening Years 7 and 8 took to the stage in Where in the Worldis Frank Sparrow?, a night was a bit grungy, dark play written entirely in nerve-racking’ rhyme by Angela Betzien. The enthusiastic cast of 20 boys negotiated chorus work, rhyming text and the wasteland of Stab City to bring this unique play to life. The play was directed by Ms Tamara Smith with support from Mr Ian Oosterhoff. Here, some of the hard- working young participants describe their Frank Sparrow experience. “The wondrous feeling of the first time on the Newington Drama stage, with the crowd buzzing with excitement and the lights flashing above creating a wonderful experience of anxiety. Where in the World is Frank Sparrow? was a marvelous experience to be a part of.” –Ryan McPhail (8/MA) “Where in the World is Frank Sparrow? was my first play at Newington. It was an amazing experience that I have cherished. Being involved inspired me to join the musical Guys and Dolls –and hopefully many more productions in the future.” –Oscar Tentij (8/LE) “My experience in the performance was great, since I had never been in a play or any live performance before. It was great learning how a play is put together From left to right: Oscar Joyce Thomson, Liam Dundon, Ryan McPhail, Sebastian and the effort that goes into them. The Hailwood, Gabe Poidevin, Kieran Casey and Oscar Tentij during “Where in the World is opening night was a bit nerve-racking for Frank Sparrow?” Photo: Chris Hayles me since I was the lead, but once I got out onto the stage all the nerves just left and I was able to act with confidence. Overall it was a fun experience and I hope to be in more performances.” –Gus Morsley (9/PR) “Where in The World is Frank Sparrow? was a blast to be a part of, with its rhyming script and amazing writing. The show was funny, outlandish and fun to watch. I had an amazing time with this production!” – Charlie Papps (9/MA) “My experience in the junior production was one I will never forget. While it was my first production and I didn’t know how it would go, I was amazed with the level of professionalism about the whole thing. The amount of people who worked together to achieve something great was astonishing, and I look forward to my From left to right: Oscar Joyce Thomson, Kieran Casey, Gus Morsley, Oscar Tentij and involvement in the Drama Department in Liam Dundon. Photo: Chris Hayles the future.” – Luke Dickinson (9/JN) OPPORTUNITY| NEWS AUTUMN 2018| 21