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Bright lights of New York

Performing Arts at Clifton jetted off for a thrilling 5 day extravaganza tour to New York at the start of the Easter break and had a magical and inspiring feast for the senses!

In all, 28 pupils from across the Upper School age range threw themselves into workshops and learned a great deal from cast members of Chicago and Billy Elliot; and of course, really enjoyed the fact they then saw those members on stage later in the day. The shows were amazing and to see an 11 year old dancing with the ability of an adult male soloist from the Royal Ballet was an unbelievable sight.

Photo gallery

The location tour took us around New York, showing us the sights and the famous location spots of productions such as Friends (and many, many other films too) ensuring that the group had a really good idea of what New York was all about before the tour really began. The trip around NBC gave a real insight into the working of a tv studio, and whilst many of the famous celebrities mentioned were mostly native Americans who had not hit the UK tv industry, the studios and information given was excellent. The highlight of this particular part of the tour was seeing Elton John preparing for Saturday Night Live!

The final day was spent in a whirlwind of the real sightseeing with a boat trip around the Hudson River showing the sights of New York from the water; the Statue of Liberty; the skyline and the various islands like Ellis Island; and then up to the 89th floor of the Empire State Building ensured that New York was seen from every angle possible.

Of course, a trip to New York would not be complete without the shopping ... or at least that was the request from all the students, and so there was a chance to purchase souvenirs before it was time to head for the airport.

A large number of people we came across during the trip commented on the students’ courtesy and kindness – whether in restaurants, theatres or on the street. From the perspective of the three accompanying adults, there were 28 very well-behaved and appreciative students throughout the trip – even though they had to walk for miles and miles!

27 April 2011

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