Editorial: Show time

Nothing brings together those who act, dance and sing more powerfully than a musical. As someone who would spend their summer breaks and weekends learning timesteps and belting out alto lines (somewhat overconfidently), the musical theatre issue of Drama & Theatre is one that I have been looking forward to since I began my tenure as editor.

Over the past year, Standing at the Sky's Edge has taken the musical world by storm, winning Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards 2023, along with a UK Theatre Award for Best Musical Production. I was lucky enough to catch its writer, Chris Bush, before she entered the rehearsal room to prepare for its West End debut. Find out what she had to say about the musical's unexpected success on page 17.

Continuing on the theme of musicals, Broadway Licensing have adapted Harry Potter and The Cursed Child for school performances – something I would have loved to experience when I was a student. I can only imagine the joy it will bring performers across the UK; you can read more about its magic on page 25.

In this issue of D&T we have launched a new ‘Venue Focus’ segment, taking a look at the amazing work theatres up and down the country are doing in their local communities, cultivating collaboration through the power of drama. Here, Nick Smurthwaite meets Blackpool Grand Theatre's education department to discuss the value of its story-led resilience programme.

Elsewhere, I look at a recent report that asks for a revamp of the current arts apprenticeship system; one writer meets some of the best up-and-coming stage designers at the Linbury Prize 2023; the National Theatre unpacks its reworking of Jekyll & Hyde which is set to reach over 10,000 students in an upcoming schools tour.

Looking ahead to the Music & Drama Education Expo in February, on page 24 I pick out some of my favourite sessions to help you plan out your day. Likewise, tickets are still available for the Music & Drama Education Awards 2024. Taking place on 22 February at the London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square, it promises to be a night to remember, with some excellent performers and nominees alike. If you spot me at either event please do say hello! I am looking forward to meeting many of you in person.

 - Hattie Fisk, Editor