Plympton Academy's outstanding performance at London theatre given 5-star review

Plympton Academy students have reached an extraordinary milestone by receiving a highly acclaimed 5-star review for their recent performance of "The Periodicals" at the Dorfman Theatre in London.

This remarkable achievement came as part of the National Theatre Connections Festival. This journey began last summer when Plympton Academy was first selected to perform at the National Theatre Connections Festival held at The Theatre Royal, Plymouth. This is the Theatre’s annual nationwide youth theatre festival, where each year, one performance group from around the country for each play are selected to perform at The National Theatre.

Plympton Academy was the only school to receive a 5-star review from Theatreland, a theatre-based blog which was established in 2023, for its excellent performance.

The play, set in a futuristic world where young people survive as techno-savvy outcasts on a rubbish dump, resonated deeply with the students, especially in its exploration of the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in a neurotypical world.

Following their performance at the Dorfman Theatre, Julie Fisher of Adventures in Theatreland praised their work, writing:

"The company, comprised of students from Plympton Academy, are universally excellent, with a particularly excellent performance from Eloise Trevor as the villainous Maude Hatchett."

This recognition comes after months of hard work and dedication by the students and staff of Plympton Academy.

Eloise Trevor, who received special mention for her role as Maude Hatchett, shared her excitement:

“Performing at the National Theatre was an incredible experience, getting to not only perform on a London stage but also having so much support from the entire team there. On top of this receiving a 5- star review was such a brilliant addition, especially receiving specific feedback.”

Mrs Trevor, Eloise's mother, commented:

“To see how the Plympton Academy production of Periodicals on a London stage was an experience neither myself as a very proud parent, or the students and teachers involved will ever forget. The whole production had upped to another level from performing locally.”

Plympton Academy, a proud member of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust, brought authenticity and conviction to their roles, impressing audiences and critics alike. Their versatility was further highlighted as some students took on roles in lighting and sound operation, highlighting their commitment to the production.

Jo Crook, Head of Performing Arts at Plympton Academy, expressed immense pride in the students' achievements, commenting:

"The success of our students at The National Theatre is a proud moment for Plympton Academy. This 5-star review not only highlights our students' exceptional performances but also highlights the creative energy and collaborative spirit they bring to every production.

“I am incredibly proud of our students for their hard work and the exceptional talent they have displayed. I couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments."

To read the full review, please click here: The Periodicals | Dorfman Theatre (Connections Festival) (adventuresintheatreland.com)