Montage Theatre Arts: news & information

Lewisham People's Day-Saturday 10th July 2010

2010-06-24T10:07:00.002Z

Venue: Dance for Life Stage, Mountsfield Park, Brownhill Road, Catford, SE6 1AN

Groups performing: Crossways and Prendergast Saturday Schools and Saturday Breakdancing.

Meeting Time: 11am prompt - all performers

Performance: 12.15pm

Please note there are no classes on this day for the group's involved.

Early starters classes on Saturday's will continue as normal.

Please go to the following website for event details and directions:

www.lewisham.gov.uk/peoplesday

Summer End of Term Demo Dates

2010-06-24T10:02:00.001Z

12.30pm, Saturday 3rd July-Prendergast Saturday School Drama Demos

9.30am, Saturday 10th July-Prendergast ES Singing and Drama Demos

15 mins before end of class: Tuesday 13th and Friday 16th July-Dance and Drama Class Demos

Saturday 17th July:

9.45am, Prendergast ES Dance Demo
9.45am, Crossways ES Ballet Demo
12.30pm, Crossways Saturday School Drama Demo

Breakdancing-London Youth Games-Saturday 3rd July

2010-06-24T10:00:00.005Z

The only group representing Lewisham - our fantastic BREAKDANCING group will be performing at the London Youth Games Festival on Saturday 3rd July, performing twice at 2.30 and 3pm. For more info about the event, go to: http://www.londonyouthgames.org

Venue and Meeting Point: Lodge Green, Crystal Palace National Sports Centre. Double Click on map below to enlarge and/or print.

Meeting Time: 2pm. Please arrive in MTA t-shirt, black/navy tracksuit bottoms or leggings, trainers or black plimsolls. And SUNTAN lotion!

Performance Times: 2.30 and 3.30pm

This is a great opportunity to be involved in cheering on our borough and encouraging those who are competing in the Games too.

We look forward to seeing our crew show their breaking skills!

Getting there
Crystal Palace National Sports Centre is relatively easy to find - with excellent transport facilities. Crystal Palace train station is right next to the Sports Centre (exit the station and turn right) with trains coming in regularly from Victoria or London Bridge. There is a bus garage at the top of Anerley Hill, a short walk from the park. There is also parking space within the park area. Drive down Anerley Hill and enter the park as signposted.

See the AA routefinder: (http://www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner_main.jsp) or www.thetrainline.com

About the Games
The London Youth Games are a unique season of events at the heart of youth sport in the Capital, involving all 33 London Boroughs and 26 National Governing Bodies. The Games are free and open to all young people, aged between 7 and 17, living in or going to school in the Capital. In 2009 over 45,000 participants began the journey to represent their local borough in one of 60 competitions across 30 sports.

Early Starters, 3-5 years Summer Holiday Workshop "The Wiz"

2010-06-23T11:08:00.000Z

A specially arranged course for under-5's. Join Dorothy and friends, the Wicked Witch and the Munchkins in a fun week of daily dance, drama and singing leading to a performance on the final day in costume and make-up!

Experienced teacher & fun, friendly classes. All welcome.

When: 26th-30th July 2010, 9.30-11am daily.
Show: Friday 30th July, 3-4pm

Where: Lewisham College, Lewisham Way, SE4 1UT

Cost: £50 or £30 concession for the week.

Please print off and complete the attached booking form and email to: office@montagetheatre.com or post to our office at The Albany.

Brockley Max events!

2010-06-05T17:46:00.003Z

Huge Congratulations to all those groups who took part in the Brockley Max events this week!

The Street Jazz group were amazing dancing on the street outside Brockley Station in the Opening Night.

Then Tuesday & Friday Ballet, Tap and Street Dance and the Prendergast Saturday School wowed the large crowd in a sun-drenched open-air show at Hilly Fields on Children's Day.

Wonderful - proud of you all!

Judy, Leigh and Johannah and the Montage team.

Summer Holiday Programme 2010 for 5-14yrs!

2010-05-29T10:00:00.001Z

It's here! Our exciting annual 3-week holiday programme. Want to dance,sing, act or make and perform in a video?

Join us for holiday fun singing, dancing and acting at the beautiful studios in Lewisham College, 9.30-4.30 daily.All teachers are West End and industry professionals.

Limited places so do book and put in your diary now - booking pack at end:

Week 1: SHOWTIME! 26th - 30th July. 5 - 14 yrs, 9.30-4.30 daily.
The Wiz: specially arranged songs and dances from the funky film musical starring Michael Jackson and Diana Ross!

Learn and perform this fantastic show with with Dorothy and friends, the Wicked Witch and those Munchkins in just 5 days and perform to family and friends in costume and make-up with fully choreographed numbers, staged songs and drama linking them all! Each day includes daily technique classes in drama, dance and singing to build confidence and skills. Afternoon sessions include DVD's of musicals and drama games and exercises, designing make-up and costume - all paced according to the groups' ages.

Tutors: Leigh Coleman, Ellie Gray and Bernadette Arthur.

Week 2: 2 - 6th August: Electric Stories: 8 - 14 yrs, 9.30-4.30 daily.
A special masterclass week with MTA's Artistic Director, Judy Gordon and media artist, Hannah Mason. Film and perform live with projected image you made in 5 days to family and friends! This year we’re creating a MONSTER TV station with monster ads, live news and filmed reports, Top of the Pops monster dance and plenty of costume and make-up!

Make a film performing live with projected image you made to family and friends in 5 days! Create a new piece of work from your ideas and skills using digital technology, writing, storyboarding, film video and perform live with projected image. This workshop includes vocal and performance technique, group physical theatre and live digital arts - a challenging and fun week for all!

Tutors: Judy Gordon and media tutor Hannah Mason.

Week 3: 9 - 13th August: Activate!: 5 - 14 yrs, 9.30-4.30 daily.

It's our very own JUNIOR GLEE WEEK! Song and dance from comedy to ballads, street to funk, ballet to tap - learn show numbers to perform what you've learnt at the end of the week. Afternoons include DVD's of film musicals to support numbers being learnt, studying vocal and dance technique of the stars with the teachers, as well as enjoying drama games and exercises.

Tutors: Leigh Coleman and Johannah Jolson

Tutors: Leigh Coleman and Johannah Jolson

In addition to the tutors, we have experienced teaching assistants and a team of volunteers so that we all have a safe and very happy time.

Please note: there are limited places available on each course.
Here's your booking pack! Download, print off, complete and send in to the office with payment. We all look forward to seeing you.

All images are from last year's summer holiday programme.

Summer Term dates reminder

2010-05-28T09:16:00.000Z

2010 Summer Term:

Tuesday 27th April – Saturday 17th July 2010 (Half term: Sat 29th May - Fri 4th June – no classes)

Dates for your Summer Term diary!

2010-05-24T08:25:00.005Z

Welcome to the summer term!

• Adult Musical Theatre - Classes begin Tuesday 27th April 2010
• Opening Ceremony,Brockley Max Festival- 6pm, Friday 28th May, Brockley station
• Children's Day, Brockley Max Festival - 12pm, Saturday 5th June 2010, Hilly Fields
• Montage Open Day @ Prendergast Hillyfields – Saturday 5th June 2010, 9.30 - 11am
• London Youth Games – Saturday 3rd July 2010
• "The Dinner Party": Free performance with Big Dance 10 - 11am, Wednesday 7th July, Ackroyd Community Centre
• Over 55’s drama/dance group – Friday 9th July: Capital Age Festival, Southbank Centre
• Lewisham People’s Day, 12pm - Saturday 10th July 2010
• Summer Holiday Programme - Monday 26th July to Friday 13th August 2010

Now, here's the last newsletter for parents with full details for each event! Just click & Download.

The Dinner Party

2010-05-23T22:21:00.001Z

Free performance events!

The Dinner Party created and performed by 17 women, aged 64 – 86 years, devised by Artistic Director, Judy Gordon. Funded by the Arts Council as part of Big Dance 10.

The women arrive at their annual dinner party. As they wait for service, the wine flows freely and truths are revealed in an inspiring, joyous dance theatre piece, by a unique set of women. Based on the performers’ own lives, the women dance, speak and sing this moving story through tap, tango and a dance with cutlery and crockery.
with additional performances from elderly groups including line dancing. And join in a fun tap dance taster from the show!

11am, Wednesday 7th July, Ackroyd Community Centre, Ackroyd Road, Lewisham, London SE23, UK

1.30pm Saturday 10th July, Ballroom, Lewisham People’s Day, Mountsfield Park, SE6 1AN

New!! Adult Musical Theatre Performance Course

2010-04-10T20:41:00.007Z

Ever wanted to be in a musical? Did you perform a long time ago or always wanted to try? Learn songs from the shows, stage them and then perform! Fun, friendly classes to develop vocal and movement self-confidence with 2 West-End tutors. For beginners and those with previous experience, go on – give it a go! BRING OUT THE STAR IN YOU!

Start: Tuesday 27th April 2010.
Length: 11 week course including a performance at the end of term
Time of class: 7:15pm-8:15pm
Venue: Prendergast – Hilly Fields College, Adelaide Avenue, Brockley, SE4 1LE
(Please note: we use the beautiful Main Hall in the school’s top site, which is the older building set within Hilly Fields park itself, next to children’s playground).
Fee: £65 or £30 concession.
Please come dressed in comfortable clothes and suitable footwear.
Must book in advance – first 2 classes are trial classes with money refunded if you choose not to continue for any reason.

FEAST 1: Dancing in the Moonlight

2010-03-03T22:47:00.006Z

Montage's Supertroupers are here again!

FEAST 1: A Tea Dance with a Difference

Date: Thursday 11th March, 2pm and 7pm
Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way Deptford, London SE8 4AG
Tickets: £9, £6 concs, £3 over 60’s
To book, call the Albany Box Office: 020 8692 4446 or visit www.thealbany.org.uk

Dancing in the Moonlight:
An afternoon/evening of love, longing, gossip and desire woven together with song, poetry, theatre and dance. Montage Theatre Arts’ Supertroupers and Entelechy’s Seven Ages Company join forces to present an event like no other.

Let your hair down and throw on your dancing shoes rocking to the music of the Jive Five. Enjoy a little theatre with The Dinner Party and a fun look at life with published poet, Angela Kirby. Sit back and enjoy the sounds of Jamaican Diva - Totlyn Jackson and listen to the sweet sounds of Trinity College’s Over 50’s choir. Join in Southbank’s Little Chair dance with primary school children.

MY TURN 2010 letter

2010-03-03T22:32:00.002Z

Crossways: Saturday 20th March, 12pm – 1pm
Prendergast: Saturday 27th March, 12pm – 1pm

“My Turn” is your event – your turn. Now you can have a go, so choreograph your own dance, write your own song, or write your own comedy drama. If you’ve always wanted to, or just don’t know what it might be like – please have a go. It’s for you and we’re all here to cheer you on.

This event is open to students from Montage’s Saturday Schools. It is not a competition, but there are guidelines and your progress will be closely monitored by staff to help you produce the best work you possibly can. So here goes:

· You can do a dance, a comedy script or a song in any style you wish. Really enjoy choosing your music for dance (be original!), or the topic for your drama or song. You can use music for another song if you wish or sing without any music accompaniment. Nothing offensive please.

· Each piece must be no longer than 2 minutes 30 seconds and no shorter than 1 minute 30 seconds – we will be VERY strict on this.

· Your number or numbers can be performed solo by you or as a duet/trio with friends.

· You must create your pieces outside of the Montage classes – so do it at home!

· Musical accompaniment - you must provide your own named CD.

· Costume can be worn, but usual class clothes are absolutely fine – this is not a show! Small props may be used.

· Teachers will give positive feedback and guidance.

To join in there are 2 dates you need to work to:

Ideas by 6th Feb: You need to write a few lines on a named sheet of paper telling us what you’d like to do – parents can help with this! Please give this info to- the relevant teacher.

Plans by 6th March: This is where we need to see a plan of your story or dance or song, so write down its beginning, middle and end and give it to your teacher.
If we’ve got a lot of entries, the teachers will ask you to show your work before
the “My Turn” event. We will tell then you if your piece is developed enough to be shown.

Presentation Day: You will perform your song, dance or act on the stage to students, teachers and families.

Parents/Carers: Parents do encourage your children to take part and help them along the way – it’s always great fun. Just ask a teacher if you have any questions.

HAVE A GO – AND HAVE A BALL!
We look forward to seeing what you come up with!

Lewisham Schools Music Showcase

2010-03-03T22:26:00.001Z

Crossways Saturday School Singers Levels 2 and 3 perform
At Blackheath Halls on 9th March 2010

Level 2 and Level 3 singing Bad Guys from Bugsy Malone.

Arrival: All performers will need to be at Blackheath Halls promptly at 4.30pm for the after school rehearsal. We will then stay at the halls until the performance has finished. Students will also need to bring some food and drink with them.

Collection: the whole programme finishes at 9pm, however the Montage students are performing in the first half and can be collected during the 15 minute interval at 8pm. They must be signed out by a member of Montage staff before they leave.

Please will you let Ellie or Alison know if you are unable to make it?

*Tickets for the event can be bought from:
Blackheath Halls Box Office 020 8463 0100 £6 (£5 concessions)

Crossways Mobile emergency mobile 07502 135 947 this will be switched on and checked for calls and messages during this event.

Please note that the event will be photographed. Can you please inform us if you do not wish for your child to be photographed?

Youth Theatre Show Letter 3.3.10

2010-03-02T17:09:00.003Z

YOUNG BROCKLEY PLAYERS

Contact Numbers:
Laura 07944 238 614 (Producer)
Matt 07526 603 415

Dear Parents/Carers

Just to update you on the show that we have been working on over the past term, rehearsals are going well and we are sure that we will put on another excellent performance.

Just a reminder:
Final rehearsal at Prendergast at usual time 5.00pm on Tuesday 9th March.

Dates & Times of Tech/Dress Rehearsal: 10th March 2010 from 5.00pm – 9.00pm
Venue for Tech/Dress Rehearsal: The Brockley Jack Theatre, SE4 2DH

Dates & Times of Performances: 11th, 12th & 13th March 2010, 5.00pm start for 7 - 9.15pm
Venue for Performances: The Brockley Jack Theatre, SE4 2DH

Each day the young people under 16 will have to be collected immediately after the rehearsal/show. You will have to sign your children out at the end of every night so we know they are safe. Performers aged 16 and over will be able to leave on their own if we hold a signed consent form (please see below).

Tickets: These are available now from the Montage office, just phone to reserve your seats. Please note: The theatre is small and has very limited seating. It is advised you ring the office and book in advance. The seats will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please note that this show is not suitable for under 12’s.

The Brockley Jack Theatre is attached to a bar/ restaurant. The young people will not be allowed in there at anytime apart from to use the toilet or accompanied by their parents/carers.

We need you. We are always open to help from yourselves and are asking if you could help us out on one of the performance nights by putting yourself forward as a chaperone for the young people while they are not on stage.

Yours faithfully
Matthew Clark

POSTPONED JANUARY CLASSES

2010-01-07T15:33:00.005Z

Dear Friends

POSTPONED JANUARY CLASSES will be deferred to:
Friday 23rd April and Saturday 24th April.

Best wishes from the Montage Team.

AUTUMN NEWSLETTER - Diary Dates!

2009-11-17T11:33:00.002Z

Dates for your diary and new free drama course!:
Autumn Term classes finish on Saturday 5th December 2009.
Spring Term: Start Tues 5th Jan – Sat 27th Mar 2010 (half term Sat 13th Feb - Fri 19th Feb).

· End of Term Demonstrations at Prendergast

Dates: Tuesday 2nd December 2009, Friday 4th December 2009, Saturday 5th December 2009.
Venue: Normal classroom venues.
Time: Demonstrations will be take place during the last 20 mins of lesson time.
Performers: Tuesday, Friday classes & Early Starters Dance, Drama and Singing classes.
Breakdance demonstration is on November 28th.

· Crossways Christmas Show and Fundraising Day!

Dates: Saturday 5th December 2009. Performance:11am.
Venue: Crossways Sixth Form, Sprules Road, SE4 2NL. Free.
Performers: All our Crossways students aged 3-16
With a whole host of fairytale creatures, Christmas threatens to be cancelled unless our talented performers can save the day!
*Anybody able to bake cakes or donate raffle prizes, please speak to Courses Manager, Alison*

· Re:Generation and Fundraising Event!

Dates: Saturday 12th December 2009. Performances: 5pm and 7pm.
Venue: Prendergast School, Hilly Fields, SE4 1LE.
Tickets: £5 from our Prendergast Managers.
Performers: All our Prendergast Saturday School students and the Supertroupers.
Starring 60 young people and our elders acting, dancing and singing in this brand new play.
**Anybody able to bake cakes or donate raffle prizes, please speak to Courses Manager, Steph**

· NEW Adult Musical Theatre Course!

Dates: January 2010. Time: Tuesdays, 7.15 – 8.15pm
Venue: Prendergast School, Hilly Fields, SE4 1LE.
Ever wanted to be in a musical? Did you perform a long time ago or always wanted to try? Make it a New Year Resolution, have fun and get fit on the way! Learn song and dance routines from stage and film leading to an end of course performance in a revue of songs and dance numbers, including jazz. Open to those of all abilities and ages with beginners very welcome. So come and discover those hidden talents. BRING OUT THE STAR IN YOU!

· Friday Street Jazz at the Southbank!

Dates: Saturday 19th December 2009. Performance: 11:00am.
Venue: Clore Ballroom, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX. Free.
We are delighted to announce we have been selected to perform their dance version of Cinderella in this prestigious national event.

· Youth Theatre Company – New Free Course!

Free Spring Term Theatre Course with Performances at the Brockley Jack in March!
Times: January – March 2010. Tuesdays, 5 – 7pm
Venue: Prendergast TLC, Lower Site, Adelaide Avenue, SE4 1LE.

We are delighted to announce an award from VCashpoint given to our new Youth Committee: Laura Moss, Matthew Clark, Evie Cramb, Rose and Lily for our Youth Theatre Company. We need new members, ages 12 – 18 years for this exciting FREE 10-week course learning a new full-length play directed by Evan Placey and leading to a professional run at our local theatre. We need performers and a production team for lighting, sound & costume. No experience necessary – just enthusiasm and commitment! To get your place – contact the office on 020 8692 7007 ASAP! Limited spaces.

New Year: 2009-2010 Booking now!

2009-08-12T18:30:00.016Z

ACT * DANCE * SING

with more special events this year for all courses at Prendergast and Crossways!

Join us in 2 fantastic venues with specialist facilities in Brockley at Prendergast School, Hilly Fields and the beautiful Crossways Academy near Brockley Station.

Classes run on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in tap, musical theatre, street jazz, breakdancing, drama, ballet, singing, Youth Theatre Company, Street Dance/disco and so much more...

NEW!! EARLY STARTERS - 3-5 years! Ballet on Tuesdays, 4 - 4.30pm.
6 classes a week for 3 - 5 year olds in music, singing, dance, drama and ballet on Saturday mornings and now Tuesday afternoons!

ADULTS - join our Tuesday Dance and Friday Tap classes! Beginners welcome!

JOIN US ON SATURDAYS TO TAKE PART IN OUR NEW PLAY!
'Re:Generation' A new one-hour MTA play funded by Awards for All created and performed by Montage drama students in our Prendergast Saturday School, young and old with local playwright and tutor Evan Placey!
Saturday 28th November 09. Showing at 5:00pm and 7:00pm
Groups performing: Prendergast Saturday School Levels 1 – 3.
Venue: Prendergast Main Hall – transformed!!

Limited availability on all classes.

Call to book your place on 020 8692 7007.

And for more details and to book, print off these forms belows, complete and send the booking form with payment to the office and we'll be in touch to confirm your place!

We look forward to seeing you there!!

Students perform annually at SCOOP at the Mayor of London's space.

2009-07-05T22:34:00.007Z

Congratulations to all the Crossways students performing
at Scoop! for London Youth Dance on Saturday.

Summer Holiday Performing Arts Programme 09

2009-05-26T22:35:00.048Z

This programme is now over.
Try our New Year from September as above!

Montage Theatre Arts Summer Programme 09

in Partnership with Lewisham College

For young people aged 5 – 14 years based in fantastic purpose-built studios at Lewisham College, Lewisham Way, SE4 1UT.

A 3-week programme of arts activities with a performance to family and friends at the end of each week!

WEEK 1: SHOWTIME! “Little Shop of Horrors”
The fabulous musical comedy hits Lewisham! Join us in this musical theatre performance workshop of this specially-adapted infamous show with a fantastic collection of broadway-style songs, conveying the tale of a meek flower-shop assistant who nurtures a rare species of talking plant with an interesting appetite!! Daily classes in dance, drama and singing and perform the show on the final day in full costume and make-up in Montage's own inimitable style!
Tutors: Nicky Swift (singing), Leigh Coleman (dance), Ben Wilkin (drama)

Week 2: ACTIVATE!: Dance & Drama
5 days of fun dance taster workshops including tap, ballet, disco and street jazz. Also, daily classes in comedy drama using vocal skills, story-telling, physical theatre, improvisation and games.
Tutors: Leigh Coleman (dance), Ben Wilkin (drama)

Week 3: ELECTRIC STORIES: Make A Film
Note: for 8 – 14 years
Create a story using digital technology in just one week! Get involved in writing, storyboarding, filming, editing, effects, projection and performance. Showpiece your work at the end of the week using the film you have made and perform with it live.
Tutors: Hannah Mason (digital/media), Rebekah Manning (drama)

Montage Summer Term Diary Dates!

2009-05-04T15:59:00.008Z

More details for each event will be given out nearer the time.

Summer Term dates: 21st April – 11th July. Half term: May 26th, 29th, 30th – no classes.

SHOWS:

Scoop: Saturday 4th July, 10am
Venue: Next to Mayor of London’s Building, London Bridge.
Show Title: Seasons – a dance
Groups Taking part: Crossways Sat School: Levels 1, 2 & 3 Dancers.

London Youth Games: Sat 4th July, 1pm.
Venue:Crystal Palace, next to Sports Stadium
Group: Breakdancing

Lewisham People’s Day: Saturday 11th July,
Venue: Mountsfield Park, Catford SE6 1AN.
Show Title: Montage Musicals - 45 minute show based on musicals from films
Show time: 12.15pm
Groups Taking part:
Prendergast Sat School: Level 1, 2 & 3.
Tuesday Tap, Tuesday Ballet, Adult tap, Street Jazz, Breakdancing.
Crossways Sat School: Level 1, 2 & 3.

Followed by:
1.30pm: Supertroopers – Judy’s Over 55’s dancing Hello Dolly!

End of term Demonstrations: Last week of term.

SUMMER TERM 09 BOOKING PACK!

2009-03-15T23:10:00.002Z

Lots of classes for all ages from 3 - 83 years. New courses and old for everyone!
New Brockley venues at Prendergast, Hilly Fields and Crossways Academy near Telegraph Hill.
Summer term includes Lewisham People's Day and other local performing events.

TO BOOK YOUR CLASSES:
Download your booking pack - just click here!
Print off the booking forms and send in to the office with payment. We look forward to seeing you in April!

Spring term events

2009-03-15T23:00:00.001Z

This is where the children show their parents, friends and families what they've been working on throughout the term.

The last day of the Spring Term is Saturday 28th March 2009

There are no demonstrations this term as both staff and students use this term to develop technique without the pressure of creating a show.

The main event for the Spring Term is the My Turn event on Saturday 28th March where all students and parents are welcome to join us. Details are in the next blog posting.

Look forward to seeing you there.

MY TURN - SAT 28th March at Prendergast School

2009-03-15T22:53:00.003Z

‘My Turn’ is your event – your turn and it will be the first time that Prendergast and Crossways students come together in an event at Prendergast School!

On Saturday 28th March, the students, parents and staff from the Saturday School at Crossways will come directly to Prendergast School for their programme from 10 - 1.15pm and join the students and staff there. Parents come to see the show with the students at 12pm.

Now you can have a go, so choreograph your own dance, write your own song, or write your own comedy drama – whatever class you do. Or do all three! If you’ve always wanted to, or just don’t know what it might be like – please have a go. It’s for you and we’re all here to cheer you on.

This event is not a competition – it is open to all Montage students, aged 6 years and over (adults too!), but there are guidelines with progress closely monitored by staff so you can produce the best work you possibly can. So here goes:

• You can do any or all - dance, comedy script or song in any style you wish. Really enjoy choosing your music for dance (be original!), or the topic for your drama or song. And nothing offensive please.

• Each piece must be no longer than 2 minutes and 30 secs and no shorter than 1 minute 30 secs – we will be VERY strict on this. We don’t want to yawn!

• Your number or numbers must be made by you only and performed solo by you or can be a performed as a duet with a friend.

• You must create your pieces outside of the Montage classes – so do it at home!

• Musical accompaniment: please provide a CD or tape which must be named by student and song/dance/act.

• Costume can be worn if you wish for the presentation. Usual clothes for classwork is also absolutely fine – this is not a show! Small props may be used.

• Teachers will give positive feedback and guidance. To do this, there are 2 dates you need to do work by:

a) Ideas: You need to write a few lines on a named sheet of paper telling us what you’d like to do and what each piece of work is about – parents can help with this!

b) Tell us your story: This is where we need to see a plan of your story or dance or song, so write down its beginning, middle and end and give it to your teacher.
This must be done by 7th March!

If we’ve got a lot of entries, the teachers will ask you to show your work to us before the
'My Turn' event. We will tell then you if your piece is developed enough to be shown.

c) Presentation, Saturday 28th March, 12 – 1pm:
You will perform your song, dance or act on the Prendergast stage to students, teachers and families.

Parents/Carers
Parents do encourage your children to take part and help them along the way – it should be great fun. Just ask a teacher if you have any queries.

HAVE A GO – AND HAVE A BALL! We look forward to seeing what you come up with!

LEWISHAM IN CELEBRATION OF BARACK OBAMA

2009-01-14T23:30:00.007Z

CONGRATULATIONS to all those who took part on one of the most exciting events we've ever taken part in on Tuesday 20th January at 7.30pm!

The Montage Saturday School Level 3, Street Jazz and Breakdancing Groups opened the whole show at The Broadway Theatre in Catford and they were superb with an full to capacity cheering the group on.

Thank you to all those involved including our assistants and parents who sat backstage with us.

SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAMME 09

2008-06-09T16:02:00.014Z

THE SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAMME WILL BE FROM 27TH JULY 2009.

TO BOOK FOR ANY OF THESE COURSES FOR SUMMER 09, the pack will arrive very soon.

PRINT OFF AND SEND TO THE OFFICE WITH PAYMENT.

If it's close to the start date, you might want to check the availability of places with the office.

Check out last year's programme here below:

Montage Theatre's Summer Musical Theatre Course

2008-06-08T12:41:00.001Z

An adaptation of Stiles and Drewe's musical comedy, Just So.
Week 1: 10am-2pm. 28th July-2nd August 2008
(See details of our full summer holiday programme below)

Before the high and far off times, oh my best beloved,
Long before the rhino had baggy skin
Or the leopard had spots
Or the kangaroo had bounce
Or the elephant had a trunk.
Came the time of the very beginnings

And that was in the days when the Eldest Magician was getting things ready

How did the elephant get his trunk?
How did the leopard get his spots?
How did the rhinoceros get his skin?

These are just some of the riddles solved in this musical comedy!

Based on the immortal short stories of Rudyard Kipling, Just So takes you on a fantastic journey along the banks of Africa's great, grey-green, greasy Limpopo River to meet an amazing collection of strange and wonderful creatures.

Set to a eclectic, upbeat score, Kipling’s “Just So Stories” are woven with wit and imagination into a song-filled journey through the jungle. And you will be inspired by its underlying message -

That one determined individual
can make a real difference in this world.

Dancing In Time

2008-06-05T12:16:00.005Z

Devised by the group and directed by Judy Gordon, Artistic Director, Montage Theatre Arts

PREMIERE: Saturday 28th June 2008, 7.30pm
At: The Albany Theatre, Douglas Way, London SE8
Tickets: £5 from the Albany Box Office: 0208 692 4446

"Now the children are all grown up so I can tell you things I always wanted to do -there are not enough hours in my days for all the things... "

A magical dance/theatre show for all ages, written, devised and performed by an exceptional group of Lewisham women, from 55 to 87yrs, creating a lively and humorous depiction of past and present, with dreams of their futures richly told with tap dancing, waltzing and jiving, music and song, film and live projection.

SPECIAL SHORTER VERSION - Capital Age Festival, Friday 11th July 2008, from 1pm
At: Big Chair Dance, Royal Festival Hall, South Bank, London SE1 (unticketed, free)

BRIEF HIGHLIGHTS - Lewisham People’s Day, Saturday 12th July 2008, 2.30pm
At: Dance for Life Stage, Mountsfield Park, Brownhill Road, Catford, SE6 (unticketed, free)

Easter Holiday Office Closed

2008-03-30T10:44:00.003Z

Please note: The office will be closed from Monday 31st March to April 7th inclusive.

All post and bookings sent during this period will not be affected and will be received, however they will not be attended to until Tuesday 8th April.

Very happy holidays to you all and we look forward to seeing you all in the summer term!

Best wishes, Judy and the team.

SUMMER TERM: From Tuesday 29 April 2008

2008-02-14T16:45:00.001Z

All dates are now in the calendar above!
From Tuesday 29 April 2008 to Saturday 19th July
Half-term: 26th - 31st May inclusive
Lewisham People's Day, Sat 12th July 08 - all student are performing except Adult Dancercise

We need new members!

We are looking for new friends to join us and current members are our best source of recruitment. Please let everyone know as we are particularly looking to build numbers in these classes:

Friday drama:
Level 1: 4.15 - 5.15, ages 5 - 7yrs
Level 2: 5.15 - 6.15, ages 4 - 6 yrs
Digital Arts: 4.30 - 6pm, 8 - 13yrs

Tuesday Beginners Tap: 5 - 6pm, ages 6 - 16 yrs

Adults:
Tuesday, Dancercise, 7 - 8.30pm
Friday, Tap, 7 - 8pm

Peter Pan takes off!

2008-01-25T06:00:00.001Z

SATURDAY 9TH FEBRUARY
CROSSWAYS ACADEMY, Sprules Road, SE4 2NL

2 SHOWS: Ticket details and details of show day will be given to you next week.
ALL PERFORMERS ARE IN BOTH SHOWS EXCEPT EARLY STARTERS.

10.30am: Early Starters will perform in the first show only. These parents have priority booking. They will not be in the second show and can be collected after the first show.

1pm: Second show Day finishes at 2.30pm at the latest and the children will stay with us between shows. All students can be collected directly after the second show.

DIgital Arts Workshop! 8 - 13 years

2007-12-08T20:05:00.000Z

We need new members!
Fridays 4.30 - 6pm.
Taught by Judy Gordon and Hannah Mason
From Friday 4th January 2008

Price: £45/£18 concession

With the huge success of our first new digital arts course for our younger friends, we are going to run another set of classes which continue the work up to the show and beyond with new themes.

A fantastic introduction to new theatre using traditional performance skills with modern technology. Based on Montage’s forthcoming fundraising, Peter Pan, we will be creating scenes, filming and editing video and images which will be projected during and around the live performance. Interactive computer animation too. If you're doing other classes with Montage, you can still perform in those numbers/scenes too!

No experience necessary - just lots of enthusiasm. You will be performing with projection, taking photos and video and writing text, singing, dancing and acting. It all depends on what you want to create! Fun with make-up and costume too. A unique course offered by Montage.

Hope to see you there!

Level 3 Dancing at Sadler's Wells

2007-12-08T16:38:00.000Z

CONGRATULATIONS to all of Level 3 who danced at Sadler's Wells on Wednesday in 'Rumble'. The number 'Hairspray' was fabulous, costumes were fantastic and the whole evening was great fun. Thank you to all the parents who helped all along the way too - again we couldn't have done without you. Another night to remember!! Best wishes, Judy and Leigh.

End-of term demonstration dates

2007-12-04T11:01:00.000Z

End of term demonstrations: These are a chance to see a little of what the students are doing in class. Demonstration classes are held in the last week of term and are in the last 15 minutes of classes after school.

Except for: Saturday School for all levels, which will be held at 12pm on Sat 8^th Dec

Sat Morning ES Dance and Drama which will be held at 9.15am on Sat 8^th Dec

Montage Half-Term

2007-10-21T20:08:00.000Z

Please note:
There are NO CLASSES during the week of half-term.
Classes commence on week of Tuesday 30th October.

Enjoy your break!

October Half-Term Musical Workshop - Sweeney Todd!

2007-10-20T22:39:00.000Z

Please note: This workshop is now fully booked!

Join us in this fun half-term workshop. This time it's based on Stephen Sondheim's

Sweeney Todd - the Demon Barber of Fleet Street!

Ring Telegraph Hill to book from September:
020 7639 0214.

Dates: Wed 24th to Fri 26th October

Time: 10am – 3pm daily

Where: Telegraph Hill Centre, Kitto Rd, New Cross, SE14

Ages: 8–16 years - limited places so book in advance!

Cost: £3 per day
Using the opening scene of the famous bloody musical, we will make a video re-creating Victorian London around the streets of Telegraph Hill, complete with costume and make-up and stage another number from the show. 3-day workshop with a sharing to family and friends at the end of the final day, with live computer interaction, video projection and performance.

Please wear appropriate clothes for dancing in - no heelies and no crocs!

Our New Year!

2007-08-13T09:42:00.000Z

Hooray - our new year is starting!
Here are the dates for the first week of term at Brockley Primary School...
Tuesday: 18th September
Friday: 21st September
Saturday: 22nd September

You can find dates for the whole year on our 'Home' page.

The booking pack for our New Year is now available to be downloaded from the 'Home' page. Please help us find as many new friends of all ages to join us - just forward this link or get them to call us: 020 8692 7007!

All our classes are continuing, some with new times, and we also have new classes added. So do check closely.

Happy holidays and see you in September!

CONGRATULATIONS TINU!

2007-08-12T20:04:00.000Z

Well done Tinu - we knew you'd do it! Tinu, a Montage student and mother of one of our littler students, has completed the sponsored 52.4 km double marathon and come in at number 48!! Click here to read of Tinu's story - a truly moving and joyous account of her day.

Tinu - words aren't enough to thank you for your support and commitment to Montage - it is amazing actions and your kind words like these that help make everything we do worthwhile.

The money Tinu raised is still being counted - and I will let you know very shortly. Any of you who sponsored Tinu or wish to donate to her fund, the fee can be given to Nicola at the office at the Albany or at the Summer School next week or even in the new term in September if you can't make it earlier.

Here is Tinu's certificate, her medals and a lovely photo of Tinu clearly enthusiastic before the race! We are so proud of you and once again - THANK YOU TINU!

Montage at LEWISHAM PEOPLE’S DAY!

2007-08-11T19:59:00.000Z

Saturday 14 July 2007
Mountsfield Park, Stainton Road, SE6

In a fairy-tale setting on the Kid's Stage, over 100 children, young people and adults performed on a beautiful day.

Our Street Jazz 2 dancers on the Young Mayor’s Stage opened the day for this stage - and they brought a very enthusiastic crowd over to watch them.

Thank you to all of you - every single performer shone on these stages and did the Montage community proud! If you have any photos - do email them in please.

Have a wonderful summer and see you in the new year to continue our good work. And do bring your friends along - we need new recruits!!

Best wishes

Judy and the Montage team!

MONTAGE'S MUSICAL THEATRE SUMMER SCHOOL - click to enlarge.

2007-07-16T12:50:00.000Z

Youth Theatre at the Albany!

2007-06-28T08:32:00.000Z

A huge WELL DONE to the Youth Theatre Company who performed TEECHERS by John Godber at The Albany, Deptford on Monday 2nd July 7:30pm

Some audience comments:

"funny, confident and brave perfomance from a very exciting group Well done!"

"this is the first amateur play I've been to when I could hear the cast perfectly. It made such a difference"

"excellent performance, from young talented performers!"

"what a result! they were all so confident and a wonderful ensemble..."

" a very funny play performed with tremendous enthusiasm and committment. Engaging and inspiring, this is what theatre is all about"

Some post-show cast members' thoughts...

'Over the last year I really think that everybody has worked so hard to get this far and to do so well with ”Teechers”. My character was easy with the lines but was harder to act, I really think that everyone has put so much into this and I think it really paid off. Thank you to everyone who has helped.'

'The experience of preparing a full play and performing it in such a professional space at the Albany was a completely new experience. I was terrified about there being problems or messing up lines etc, but in fact all of the hiccups in the play and on the way to it only added to the enjoyment of the process as we all managed to overcome them together.'

'I can’t believe my mum turned up. She said she couldn’t come. I was kinnda pleased but glad I didn’t know otherwise I would have been sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo scared and nervous. '

Montage at LONDON YOUTH GAMES: Sat Levels 2 and 3 and Breakdancing

2007-06-23T19:55:00.000Z

LONDON YOUTH GAMES
Sunday 1 July 2007, 9.00 am
Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, Ledrington Road, SE19 2BB

Just to say thank you to all of you who performed and watched this performance - the rain cleared for us to entertain the troupes with not just our dancing but an impromptu warm-up with Kiki! Great fun and another fantastic morning - well done to you all!

Montage at Scoop! - Street Jazz 2 and Breakdancing

2007-06-12T19:49:00.000Z

SCOOP!
Sat 23 June 2007, 10.00 – 12.00 midday
Queen’s Walk, Next to City Hall (London Bridge)

What a fantastic morning - and no rain! Our groups were excellent as usual with the crowd going wild as Olivia opened the number. The little ones were cheered on in their Breakdancing section as were the street jazz dancers . Kiki enjoyed his spot too and it was a thrill to see the other groups around London present their work.

So well done to all those who took part and on to our next shows!

Judy

FREE HALF-TERM DRAMA WORKSHOPS

2007-05-15T20:37:00.000Z

FREE WORKSHOPS in Voice, Character, Writing and Movement!
For young people over 12 years! Just turn up for the workshop and join!

When: Tuesday 29th May and Wednesday 30th May, 11 - 1pm and 2 - 4pm both days

Where: Crossways Academy, New Cross, SE4

As part of our funded project for the Youth Theatre Company this year, Montage will be offering a series of free workshops with theatre professionals. Montage staff will be with the students for both days and during the lunch hour including Hannah and Michael.

Tues 29th May 11am- 1pm: Voice – led by Clive Holland
Clive Holland is an actor/director who has worked with many nationally and internationally renowned theatre companies including; Cartoon de Salvo (“Gloriously theatrical, delicious …” The Wall Street Journal), Third Party (“… innovative and enriching theatre …” The Irish Times) and Trading Faces (“Beautiful, surreal …” The Oxford Times). His roles have included Claudius (Hamlet), Estragon (Waiting for Godot), The Porter (Macbeth), Flamineo (The White Devil) and Captain Hook (Peter Pan). Clive has directed companies as far afield as East Sussex (And His Name Was Jim … The Company) and Suwon City, South Korea (Richard the Third … The Suwon International Company). Clive produces theatre that is innovative, joyful, exciting and surprising but which holds at its heart a strong connection between the audience and the performer. Clive’s strong belief in theatre as a magical and essential art-form has driven his desire to nurture and develop people’s skills, knowledge and enthusiasm through training, workshops and classes.

Tues 29th May 2pm-4pm: Character – led by Adam Quayle
Adam is Artistic Director of Box of Tricks Theatre, which is Associate Company at The White Bear. He has previously worked as an assistant director at The Library Theatre in Manchester.
Please note that we will still be running our Youth Theatre session at 5.15pm at Brockley Primary School after this workshop.

Weds 30th May 11am-1pm: Writing/Devising – led by Kenneth Emson
Kenneth is Associate Writer for Box of Tricks Theatre. He has recently been awarded a grant from the Peggy Ramsay Foundation, and will shortly be workshopping his play Rural at the National Theatre Studio.

Weds 30th May 2pm – 4pm: Movement – led by Margaret Tully
Margaret Tully began at The Old Vic Youth Theatre before going onto Webber Douglas. She was picked by MGM to join the show Jubilee in Last Vegas and continued to train and work in America for twelve years. Margaret has appeared in shows ranging from improvisational comedy, Shakespeare, Restoration Comedy, Musical Extravaganzas to Poetry Recital in both America and England. Since becoming a teacher Margaret has brought a group of students to the Cottesloe Theatre as winners of the Shell Connections with Mark Ravenhill’s play, Citizenship in 2005. Her students have gone onto drama school, become members of the National Theatre Young Company, RADA Youth and Winners of Shell Connections.

Calling Volunteer Dance Assistants!!

2007-05-14T22:52:00.000Z

Dance assistants are urgently required at our classes on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from September 07.

You must genuinely enjoy working with children, young people and adults, showing commitment and reliability with a bright, positive and responsible attitude in the position. The placements are unpaid, but you will be rewarded with the development of a close and happy relationship with well-behaved children and adults, and experience of working within a large cross-section of the community in highly structured, enjoyable classes with an exciting theatre company. You may take more than one session if you wish.

TUESDAYS:
Ballet, 5-8yrs, 4.15 - 5.00pm: Tap Dance, 6-10 yrs, 5 - 6pm; Street Jazz 1, 7-10 yrs, 6- 7.30pm

FRIDAYS:
Ballet 4 -7 years, 4.15 - 5.15pm; Street Jazz 2, 6 - 7.30pm, 11yrs+

SATURDAYS:
Early Starters, 9.15 -10am, 3 - 5yrs: Dance
Saturday School: 10am -1.15pm, incl 15 min break with 3 groups for 3 to 16 yrs.
Breakdancing: 1.30 - 2.30pm, 6-16yrs

Where: Brockley Primary School, Brockley Road, SE4.
Free local parking outside door.
Bus: 171,172,122 to the door and 484 10 minute walk.
Trains - 5 minute walk: Brockley - 2 stops from London Bridge and direct
from Victoria. Also Crofton Park, London Bridge.

PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION - 020 8692 7007, office@montagetheatre.com!