Drama at Parkgate House

Drama teacher - Mr Vince Shiels
Mr Shiels joined Parkgate House School in 2002 with three years teaching experience. He has worked in all aspects of theatre, film, television and radio since the age of five.
Mr Shiels trained at Drama School, The Royal Irish Academy of Music and Irish Theatre Ballet. Along with his training, Mr Shiels wrote and directed various children’s shows as part of the Edinburgh Theatre Festival.

"My commitment to the children at Parkgate House is to ensure that each child has the opportunity to reach a level of confidence which will not only help them to excel in drama but in all subjects and every other area of their lives."

Drama in the Nursery and Pre-Prep Department
Drama at Parkgate House School begins in the Nursery department. Children as young as two and a half are introduced to drama in a gentle and fun way. The children at Parkgate are encouraged to build up their confidence and self esteem. The Nursery department perform an array of songs from around the world in their class groups. They dress up in costumes and usually follow a theme that relates to their termly projects. The reception children are more experienced and the performances become a little more complex. Last year the children performed a mini musical called ‘Ballooning around the world.’ By the time the children reach the pre-prep department, they are well accustomed to drama and performing, and the shows become more ambitious. Last year the Pre-Prep 1 and 2 classes performed a mini musical written by our very own Douglas Wootton, called ‘Volcanoes.’ At this point, learning lines and character building are a prominent part of the productions. The drama lessons in the summer term revolve around the show and it is always a great pleasure to see the children’s great achievements during the final performance!

Drama in the Prep
In 2003 the children performed “The Odyssey” by Homer and last year they took part in “Shakespearean Picture Plays.” All of the Prep drama productions are performed in the Grand Hall at the Battersea Arts Centre. However, last year the students performed "Murder in the Cathedral" by T.S Eliot in the Church of the Ascension on Lavender Hill.