A theatre studies ‘Presentation Masterclass’ presented by ASK Productions saw ex pop star Anna Kumble, CBBC presenter Sophie McDonnell with Casualty actress and West End performer Jodie Kumble, work with pupils at St. Dominic’s School in Brewood.
ASK productions provided 2 ‘Masterclasses’ each lasting 2 hours for the 40 GCSE Performing Arts and ‘A’ level Theatre Studies students. The first workshop presented by Anna and Sophie concentrated on TV presenting and directing in a TV studio.
Director of ASK, Anna Kumble, who had 5 top 10 hits as singer Lolly said, “Impressionable young girls have dreams that they want to fulfill in Performing Arts and TV but they rarely know what it entails. We want to teach them the right presentation and interview skills that will increase their confidence and create positive thinking in everything they do.”
The girls practiced warming up exercises for their voices, were taught breathing exercises to combat interview and audition nerves, learning the importance of good posture and diction to ensure confidence at all times. Pupils then acted out TV role-plays in pairs whilst interviewing each other and being videoed at the same time to give a TV studio experience. After lunch the girls were taught a Theatre Masterclass by Jodie, a former pupil of St. Dominic’s who joined the School on a music scholarship at 14, before graduating July last year from the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA).
Jodie said, “These workshops aim to bring out the best in an individual and will increase confidence, assertiveness, motivation and social skills for all that take part. We believe that being taught by artists who have experience in Performing Arts fields gives a realistic and honest approach.”
‘A’ Level theatre studies student Emma Robinson (17) said, “Both Masterclasses have given a real insight into the Theatre and Media industry. Teaching us these invaluable techniques hopefully will ensure performing arts pupils at St. Dominic’s experience the same success as ASK Productions tutors have.”
Jodie concluded, “It’s great to come back to St. Dominic’s, the school has such amazing academic and performing arts facilities for every student. I’m really impressed with the calibre of all the students here. I know I had an immense amount of encouragement when I was a pupil which has got me to where I am today.”
ASK Productions launch ‘Presentation Masterclasses’ to comprehensive and private schools across the country in April 2008. Other tutors are Jenny Frost from Atomic Kitten, Mark Rafferty from Neighbours and Hunter from Gladiators.
For more information on St. Dominic’s School and Sixth Form Performing Arts Centre please contact the School Secretary on 01902 850248.
Anyone interested in ‘Presentation Masterclasses’ please contact Anna or Sophie at ASK Productions on 0208 880 6372.
