SVS 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' Programme - January 2022

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

presents

the musical

BOOK BY

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY

HELEN WATTS

EAMONN O’DWYER

SENIOR PRODUCTION

12-14 JANUARY 2022

T

he Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a gothic story by American author Washington Irving, contained in his collection of 34 essays and short stories entitled The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. Written whilst Irving was living in Birmingham, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was first published in 1819. Along with Irving’s companion piece Rip Van Winkle, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is among the earliest examples of American fiction with enduring popularity, especially during Halloween.

Based on Irving’s original tale, the musical version of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was written by Helen Watts, with lyrics and music

by Eamonn O’Dwyer. It is a story of community, a story of faith, of blood and belief, a story that asks the simple question - what happens when good people make bad decisions?

The story is set in the isolated town of Sleepy Hollow, which has been disrupted by the arrival of a new school teacher, Ichabod Crane. He challenges the townsfolk’s superstitions with science, reason and fact, but Katrina van Fleet, heiress to Sleepy Hollow’s rich land is charmed by his intellect and passion. But Ichabod is mistaken: behind each one of the villagers’ tales lies a dark and bloody truth. As the spirits of the Hollow Wood grow restless, and as the hooves of the Headless Horseman thunder ever nearer, Katrina is forced to make a choice that will change the fate of Sleepy Hollow forever.

CAST and PRODUCTION TEAM PRINCIPALS

musicians

ICHABOD CRANE KATRINA VAN FLEET BROM VAN BRUNT

Tobias Butler Lulu Pankhurst Maximus Woods

VILLAGERS SABINE EVA VAN BRUNT FATHER ABRAM LISBETH VAN FLEET HANS VAN RIPPER BALTUS VAN FLEET WILLEM

Anna Smith Holly Clark Thomas Dolan Amalie Ondrova Andrew Loy Thomas Arthur Toby Loy

TENANT FARMERS HENRIETTE KLAUS FLORINA JOHAN MARKUS

Scarlett Washington Samuel Foss Bibi Ongley-Dellar Oscar Vas Kieran Bush

OUTSIDER children IMOGEN JOSHUA

children Darcy Hanna Erin McGregor Anya McKenna-Bruce Jago Ongley-Dellar Elizabeth Penfold Charlotte Pritchard Raphael Shaddick Imogen Trott Jemima Wilson

Evie Westlake Oscar Anderson

PIANO PERCUSSION CELLO DOUBLE BASS HARP VIOLIN REED 1 REED 2 REED 2 (Dep) HORN

Cormac Dorrian Graham Mann Fraser Bowles Callum Yule Catrin Meek Nicky Goodwin Kate Fish Sara Grint Sheila Marshall Simon Phillips

ICHABOD CRANE TOBIAS BUTLER, LOWER SIXTH

T

o receive a main role in a senior school production is something I have always dreamed of since I started to get involved in productions at SVPS. If you told me ten years ago, when I was just about to perform Robin Hood at the Prep School, that I was going to be a main character in a senior school production I would not have believed you! These last few months have been a highlight of my School life and I have enjoyed every single second of the show; from the scene blocking to the line learnings, it has all been something of a dream. It will be something that I will keep with me as a grow older and look back on my younger years.

I would like to thank the people who made everything possible for this production. Firstly, Mr Fewson, who has spent countless weeks blocking scenes and helping me throughout, building this wonderful character of Ichabod Crane. Secondly, Mr Moulton, who has been my singing teacher since Year 4. Having someone as the MD who knows my voice so well, has meant that vocally I am able to put on a good show. Without Mr Moulton, the show would be nowhere near as good as it is. Equally, without Mrs Howell, our Choreographer, some scenes would feel empty and pointless but, because of her, the cast and I are able to perform and dance to the best of our ability.

I would also like to thank the technicians and the band, these people have taken up their free time to help us put on one of the greatest productions the School has seen. Finally, Mrs Buckland has been amazing ensuring that everything backstage has run seamlessly. Because of all these people mentioned and, of course, the cast, this show is one of the best that SVS has ever seen. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed putting the whole production together (which is a lot!).

KATRINA VAN FLEET LULU PANKHURST, LOWER SIXTH

I

have been at Sutton Valence School since Nursery, and this is my first time singing on a stage in front of an audience! To say that I am nervous would be an understatement. Although I have been in past productions at the School, this is the first time I am playing a major role.

Coming back straight after GCSEs and into a production, I thought I would struggle to find my place on the stage. However, playing the role of Katrina Van Fleet has really helped me to find my feet. The role of Katrina interested me straight away because of how much I related to her. Throughout the play, we slowly see her begin to grow as a character. She starts off as the stereotypical ‘perfect daughter’, but then starts to make her own decisions; eventually getting bored of being told what to do.

I have been lucky to have such a supportive cast and crew around me during the making of this production. I know that if I didn’t get pushed to do this production by the Director and Musical Director, I would have never become as confident as I am today. It is crazy to think that two years ago, I could not stand on a stage alone without running away and panicking so, like Katrina, my character has also developed.

This play has undoubtedly helped me to understand and realise my acting potential. Once I lost my reservations about performing, I thoroughly enjoyed taking on a role like this. Being a part of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow will definitely help me in my future as a Drama student at SVS.

Brom Van Brunt maximus woods, lower SIXTH

H

aving not been involved in a production at Sutton Valence School for a couple of years, I thought it would be more of a struggle to get back on the stage than it was but, thanks to a great cast and Director, the production came to life quickly. This productive atmosphere has led to a performance that we are proud to bring to you this evening.

Brom Bones (whose full name is actually Abraham Van Brunt) loves to play practical jokes, get himself into duels, and brag about his exploits. His very name reveals his brute strength and contrasts with Ichabod’s more diminutive figure and fearful spirit.

However, he is harmless and the townsfolk secretly admire him.

Approaching the character, I established two main themes; honour and the respect Brom holds for his work.These are an integral part of his philosophy and the way he acts in the play. As the play progresses, Brom’s frustration mounts, but there is a noble reason behind his attitude and I tried to convey that as the tension rises.

With a few roles on the Sutton Valence School stage already under my belt, this is now my penultimate role at the School, and I wish everyone an enjoyable evening.

sabine

eva van brunt

anna smith, UPPER SIXTH

holly clark, UPPER SIXTH

U

T

Playing the role of Sabine has been a challenging but interesting experience, with her role as the outcast and mystic of the town being a tough one to adjust to. However, despite the challenge, I have entirely enjoyed the experience as the cast of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow has been such an amazing one to work with and I am so happy to be completing my last play at the School with such a great group of people.

I have thoroughly enjoyed adjusting to the 1820s time period for this musical. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is unlike anything I have ever done before and this experience has been completely unique which, for me, is the best thing about it. So, I will leave you with ‘the Legend’ of Sleepy Hollow, hold onto your heads!

nlike most previous productions I have done at the School, I have to admit I was completely unfamiliar with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow before reading the script. However, despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this interesting but eerie tale of mystery and macabre develop and come to life.

he Legend of Sleepy Hollow is my fifth and final production at Sutton Valence School and I have really enjoyed being involved with this musical in my last year here. It has been so much fun to work with everyone in the cast from all of the different year groups and to watch some of my peers excel in their first appearance in a production here.

FATHER ABRAM thomas dolan, lower SIXTH

F

ather Abram is a rather unassuming man of God, who, in the words of Mr Fewson, possesses an “iron fist in a velvet glove”. He is not the brightest, nor the most observant, but he knows what is good and what is right, at least from a certain point of view.

The productions at SVS are always a highlight for me, and I have taken part in every show I possibly could. It is good to be back on stage with a live audience and performing a role I have had a blast rehearsing. Though I have sung and danced on stage before, this role offered new challenges, but also, much like Father Abram himself, clings to the more usual and old ways of doing things. I do hope that you all enjoy the show as much as we have rehearsing it.

But remember, the devil is everywhere in Sleepy Hollow, and he takes on many forms; be vigilant, and pray the Headless Horsemen does not stumble upon you…

LISBETH VAN FLEET AMalie ONDROVA, UPPER SIXTH

P

laying the character of Lisbeth Van Fleet gives me an excellent opportunity to improve both my acting and singing skills. As an international student who only joined the School in September, it was quite challenging to get straight into performing in a foreign language.

That said, the similarities between me and my character, as well as the encouraging cast, has helped me to settle in well.

Presenting everyday emotions has been a very relatable experience which gave me a deeper understanding of my part and convinced me about possible future participation in performing. Thank you for coming along and I hope you enjoy our performance.

HANS VAN RIPPER ANDREW LOY, UPPER SIXTH

T

he Legend of Sleepy Hollow is my final production at Sutton Valence School. Over the last seven years, I have been given the opportunity to perform in many different productions.

Last year, I was fortunate to have the lead role in the senior production of Great Expectations. As a cast, we faced many challenges as the production was forced to be postponed by six months and ended up being performed under recorded conditions, as audiences could not attend. This changed the idea of productions in many ways as I had to perform for the camera rather than an audience.To change from that to a very technical role in this year’s production has been a challenge, but one that I have enjoyed.

My role this year is as a villain, Hans Van Ripper, who attempts to gain control over Sleepy Hollow as he drives for financial success and power. I am excited to give this production my all and to give the audience a show worth remembering.

BALTUS VAN FLEET THOMAS ARTHUR, UPPER SIXTH

B

eing a part of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is my first time as a performer in a school production. I have always been on the fence when it comes to joining a production, considering the time commitment needed. It was only now, in the Upper Sixth, that I figured I wouldn’t be able to get another chance if I were to pass this opportunity up, so I applied and was handed the role of Baltus Van Fleet.

Working on this production certainly has not been as straightforward as the scripts and stories make you believe, so whilst it has taken time to adjust to my daily schedule, I find myself increasingly engaged and interested with everything happening both on and off stage.

The character of Baltus has presented new challenges including new ways of interpreting the character and his mannerisms. One of the most challenging things I have found is synchronising with fellow performers, be that with the script or musical cues, so I find myself aiding others with this behind the curtains, a minor job I find almost as rewarding as the final result, when performing in front of a live studio audience. From my experience here, I wish I had been involved in more of the School productions in the past.

WILLEM TOBY LOY, LOWER SIXTH

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he Legend of Sleepy Hollow is my third production at the School and, this year, I was given the role of Willem, the nosey, pedantic clerk to Hans Van Ripper (played by my older brother). Being in most scenes with my brother has presented a unique rehearsing opportunity!

Willem was an enjoyable character to perform, as although he is not always the centre of attention, he is always in the shadows as the main plot unfolds and playing this character has offered an interesting dynamic. I have really enjoyed my part in this production and I hope you will love watching it just as much.

HENRIETTE SCARLETT WASHINGTON, lower SIXTH

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ince September, we have all been looking forward to putting on a live production, given that COVID stopped so many activities at the School.

We have worked really hard to make sure we can put on the best production and it has been a fantastic experience. As a cast, we have worked together and become very close. Our production has had its stressful moments but our determination has seen us build an amazing show. I hope you enjoy our version of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

KLAUS SAMUEL FOSS, LOWER SIXTH

P

laying Klaus was one of the highlights of my year. With the struggles that COVID brought, it was one of the main ways that I had distracted myself with whilst alone in my room in isolation. As a horror fan myself, it was very enjoyable to be in a scary performance.

The cast, Director and all of the behind-the-scenes staff have worked really well together to create such a great production. As the show carries on and the tension rises, the night will get darker and more unnerving. I hope everybody has an enjoyable night.

FLORINA BIBI ONGLEY-DELLAR, lower SIXTH

T

he idea of joining a new school then having to stand up in front of a lot of people to sing (which I am not very confident with) was very daunting, however the cast has been amazing and very supportive throughout.

I was very happy to have been picked for Florina as she is a very busy housewife who definitely wears the trousers in the relationship! She has five children who run her ragged, however she loves them very much. I think this is an amazing play and very fantastically spooky and I am proud to be involved.

MUSICAL NUMBERS Act I PrOLOGUE - STRANGE CHILD Company THE GIRL Imogen and Joshua A PLEASING LAND Sabine and Company THE DEVIL NEVER RESTS Company THE TALE OF THE HEADLESS HORSEMEN Baltus Van Fleet POOR LITTLE TOWN Children THE NEW ENGLAND PRIMER Children WE USED TO THINK THE EARTH WAS FLAT Ichabod Crane THE LIFE WE LIVE Brom Van Brunt and the Tenant Farmers ALL TOO SOON Eva Van Brunt and Katrina Van Fleet MR CRANE SAYS Children, Ichabod Crane, Tenant Farmers and Father Abram BLACK-EYED SUSAN Sabine THE TALE OF THE WHIPPOORWILL Katrina Van Fleet THE PROMISE Brom Van Brunt, Markus, Johan and Klaus THE TALE OF MAJOR ANDRE Father Abram and Company

MUSICAL NUMBERS Act II THE DREAM Sabine NOTHING Ichabod Crane and Katrina Van Fleet THE FUNERAL Lisbeth Van Fleet, Katrina Van Fleet, Father Abram, and the Tenant Farmers THE WILL Baltus Van Fleet THE DREAM (REPRISE), the fight Sabine, Brom Van Brunt and Katrina Van Fleet PETER, PETER, PUMPKIN EATER Children THE POWER Lisbeth Van Fleet HALLOWS’ EVE: THE HEADLESS HORSEMAN Company and Hans Van Ripper THE LETTER Katrina Van Fleet and Ichabod Crane THE HOLLOW WOOD Sabine THE HORSEMAN Company THE CURSE Katrina Van Fleet EVA REMEMBERS - THE TALE OF THE INDIAN GIRL Children

MARKUS KIERAN BUSH, lower SIXTH

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his is my fifth production at Sutton Valence School and I have definitely enjoyed it the most. As with all of my previous shows, this has been another fun production and I am excited to perform it to a live audience.

I am very happy to be playing the role of Markus, although I am not sure whether to be offended that I have been given the role of an alcoholic, considering we were told the roles were picked on who they suit the most! I hope you enjoy the show.

JOHAN OSCAR VAS, UPPer SIXTH

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his is my third School production in my seven years at Sutton Valance School and my most integral role yet. It is the first time I have properly experienced the full ins and outs of a play production, let alone a musical.

Last year, I played Bentley Drummel in Great Expectations, but this was not an orthodox production due to the fact it ended up being a streamed performance, rather than a live-audience show, I also had a minor role as Shan Yu’s foot soldier in Mulan. As such, this is the first proper time I have been able to immerse myself within the performance conditions. I hope you enjoy the show.

ENSEMBLE cast CHILDREN

OSCAR ANDERSON Third Form

jago ongley-dellar Fourth Form

darcy hanna Fourth Form

ELIZABETH PENFOL D Fourth Form

imogen trott Fourth Form

erin mcgregor Fourth Form

charlotte pritchard Fourth Form

evie westlake First Form

anya mckenna-bruce

Fourth Form

raphael shaddic k Fourth Form

jemima wilson

Fourth Form

Director’s Notes Mr B Fewson

Al l that I ask is that you are open to suggestion W

elcome back to The Baughan Theatre. There is no hyperbole when I say that it has been too long! It has been the job of the cast, crew and I over the last five months to ensure that you leave the theatre this evening thinking that it’s been well worth the wait!

The musical version of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a relatively new piece, originally written for the National Youth Musical Theatre in 2018. It is a rare musical that brings to life some powerful forces and sets them directly in opposition to each other. It is a story of folklore and rationality; honour and selfishness; love and duty. This underlying narrative means that it is hugely relevant in today’s seemingly polarised society.

What stood out to me in choosing this musical was that it suited the company of actors that we had available to us. It is a hugely atmospheric and challenging piece that provides the actors with three-dimensional characters to play, both in acting scenes and through song. It has been a pleasure to see the cast grow into such confident and skillful performers, reaching notes and levels of nuance that few (including themselves) will have thought possible.

This challenging process has been made possible with the ever-creative, passionate and patient Mr Moulton, whose musical direction has brought to life the power of the piece. In addition, Mrs Buckland’s unflappability and resourcefulness have been invaluable in supplying many of the props and costumes on display, as well as running the backstage with incredible efficiency.

I am greatly looking forward to seeing you in the audience and I hope you enjoy the show.

PRODUCTION TEAM DIRECTORIAL

FRONT OF HOUSE

Director

Mr B Fewson

Front of House Manager

Mr W Radford

Musical Director

Mr D Moulton

Choreographer

Mrs A Howell

Front of House

Mrs D Aitken Mrs F Gosden Miss L Gray Mrs E Head Miss E Oliver Mrs B Palmer Mr C Rose Mrs S Rose Mrs Z Warner Miss C Young

TECHNICAL Production Design

Mr J Mitchell

Lighting

Miss L Curran

Sound

Mr J Mitchell

Stage Effects

Mr J Asquith

Stage Manager

Mrs K Buckland

BOX OFFICE

Programme Design Mr W Radford

Stage Hands Carlotta Chalk-Powell Ellie Fannon Costumes Larger Than Life Costumes

Programme Photography

Ahuvi Photography

Ticketing and Publicity

Mrs N Edwards Mr W Radford Mrs W Rogers

headmaster’s thanks mr j thomas

I

am so pleased that we are able to bring this production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow to you. The cast and crew have worked so hard in challenging conditions and they are really proud of their work. I am sure after this evening you will share in that pride!

Before I became Headmaster here, one of the aspects about the School that appealed most to me was the warm, supportive and open community; it is clear that people really care about the School and each other. Pupils are encouraged to find their passion and to achieve their very best in

everything they do which is evident when watching a stage production like this come to life.

Since my school days, I have always believed that we should all contribute to the communities of which we are a part.

Some of my own happiest times at school were probably being part of big events where everybody worked together, such as musical and dramatic performances. I am sure we will see that happiness and feeling of community this evening too.

I hope you all enjoy the show.

Sutton Valence School North Street Sutton Valence Maidstone Kent ME17 3HL