The Hoi Polloi Academy (HPA) stands tall with pride as it announces its participation in the highly anticipated Junior Theatre Festival 2024 this May, taking the stage as one of Malta's first musical theatre academies to grace this prestigious event.
A jam-packed weekend!
On Saturday, May 18th, anticipation mounts as over fifty HPA students, parents and staff, eagerly prepare to descend upon the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Birmingham for the Junior Theatre Festival 2024.
Europe’s largest celebration of musical theatre for young performers, the festival is held annually at the ICC in Birmingham and produced by Music Theatre International (MTI).
Embracing the spotlight in the Pink Pod, the day-long festival promises a whirlwind of excitement for HPA. From observing fellow performers to facing adjudication and exploring new shows, the agenda is packed with thrilling activities.
Moreover, attendees will relish the chance to engage with West End luminaries and partake in enriching musical theatre workshops, offering an opportunity to further grow their knowledge of performance and backstage, as well as, providing both a confidence boost for the children and invaluable exposure for the school.
"Participating in such an event beautifully aligns with our school's 'three E’s' message: Engage, explore, and express," shared Marco A. Calleja, Executive Producer and Director at HPA.
A staunch advocate for blending enjoyment with comprehensive learning, Marco views this excursion as an ideal chance for students to put their classroom knowledge into practice. By venturing beyond their local stage and engaging with seasoned professionals who have walked the path to stardom, they can glean invaluable insights and firsthand inspiration.
"There's a wealth of self-expression to be gleaned from observing our peers grace the stage. Festivals like this serve as vibrant hubs for the exchange of talent, lifelong skills, and one-of-a-kind life experiences." - Marco Calleja.
"Birmingham brings a new experience for me, as I have never competed with theatre schools abroad before,” exclaimed twelve-year-old Emily Dimech, who has been an HPA student since the tender age of two and a half. “I’m both excited and nervous! I look forward to the festival to meet people with different experiences and techniques, and also witness their talents.”
The countdown has commenced
At HPA, students and teachers are deep in rehearsal mode, dedicating themselves to an intensive regimen which spanning three weeks.
This year's festival invites any school or youth group that has licensed a Broadway Junior show after January 1, 2022. Following HPA's stellar three-day performance run of The Little Mermaid JR at Valletta’s Campus Theatre last November 2023, they secured their spot at the festival.
Preparations kicked off in earnest upon confirmation last June, made possible by the unwavering support of parent volunteers Christine Vella, Claudio Cardona, and Erika Quinn.
What’s happening across the Curtain Line
The complete journey spans three action-packed days, from Friday, May 17th, to Sunday, 19th, culminating in a stopover in London to catch Frozen the Musical, fuelling the students’ inspiration right before their return to Malta. During the festival, after a rousing mass 'kick off' and warm-up session, the day-long program unfolds.
Adjudication and New Works Showcase
During the festival, groups showcase 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior musical, presenting their talents for adjudication by esteemed theatre professionals.
These experts meticulously assess performances in music, acting, dance, and overall execution. Following their evaluations, adjudicators provide constructive feedback to each group, nurturing further growth and learning in crucial areas.
After lunch, the group gathers in the theatre for a preview of two new Broadway Junior shows. A West End star will also answer questions and perform for the students.
Separate Workshops For Students Teachers and Group Leaders
The students will be immersed in interactive workshops led by global West End pros and master teachers, covering acting, singing, and dancing. Dance sessions will feature authentic choreography from West End shows.
Additionally, iTheatrics, creators of Broadway Junior shows, will host workshops tailored for theatre educators. Group leaders can ask questions, share experiences, and explore new methodologies. They'll also rehearse and perform a musical number on the main stage.
Awards Ceremony
To conclude the day, attendees gather in the main theatre to watch outstanding closing performances selected from morning adjudications. Awards are presented for various achievements, followed by performances by special guest stars.
About the Junior Theatre Festival
The Junior Theatre Festival unites schools and youth groups from across the UK and Europe for a thrilling day of musical theatre excitement.
“Once again, we are thrilled to celebrate all things jazz hands and spirit fingers at our home at the glorious ICC in Birmingham,” writes Ryan Macaulay, JTF Europe Producer.
Each year, Birmingham's ICC hosts the acclaimed Junior Theatre Festival, Europe's top showcase of musical theatre for young talents, produced by Music Theatre International (MTI).
Established in 1952 by Broadway luminaries Frank Loesser and Don Walker, Music Theatre International (MTI) operates a London office that oversees a vast European market from Iceland to Israel. Annually, MTI licences over 5,000 productions spanning from schools to professionals, captivating audiences exceeding 6 million worldwide.
Excited and wish to join HPA's theatrical escapades? Parents and prospective students can:
● Explore HPA’s Facebook page and Instagram;
● Reach out via email at hello@hoipolloimalta.com;
● Drop by The Creative Hub;
● Contact the academy directly by calling 9915 2535.
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