Editorial: Summer Term 1 2023-24

As the sun begins to set later and the flowers start to bloom, often spring can provide us with a newfound appreciation for what we see day-to-day. This is not just in nature; it seems to seep into our classrooms and school halls. Students are cheerier, as are the staff. The sunshine seems to have that impact, doesn't it?

In a similar vein, I was left with a new lease of appreciation for drama educators across the UK following the Music & Drama Education Expo 2024 in February. When faced with difficult circumstances and limitations to resources, teachers are not only impressively resillient, but (on the whole) are bright, upbeat and often beaming when discussing their practices. I am blown away by the kindness, compassion and care so many of you put into your students, and the impact of this on the success of our subject cannot be emphasised enough. Before delving into this issue of D&T, I urge you to give yourself a pat on the back for all the work you have put into your pupils this term. Although it may feel like a thankless task sometimes, I promise you it does not go unnoticed.

Following a discussion at the Expo in a fruitful session run by Dr Steve Ball, in this magazine we look at the positives we can take from our colleages in the music education sector, despite the differences in our subject area. We also cover a variety of topics in technical theatre, featuring a profile peice on performance designer Abby Clarke, a Young Technicians course in Stratford East, and the RSC's Apprenticeship Scheme. Elsewhere, meet the Guildford Shakespeare Company on its 18th birthday, find a practitioner focus on Grotowski, or read some brilliant advice for Early Years and Primary lessons. As always, you can also find a plethora of reviews and news from across the sector.

In addition, I would like to mention how amazing it was to see so many of you in person at the Music & Drama Education Awards 2024. It was a spectacular night with some thrilling performances, reflecting some of the amazing work that often goes uncelebrated. Bravo to all those shortlisted and, of course, the worthy winners.

As spring moves on, remember that even Shakespeare noted that the season's ‘winds breathe sweet, untidy though they be’. While it might not always be plain sailing in your school, know that optimism and a change of perspective can transfrom even the dreariest of days.

 - Hattie Fisk, Editor