THE ELLA PHILP FUND - NEWTON ABBOT COLLEGE (NAC) – THE ADDAMS FAMILY

It’s never too late to report on great performances! This one happened right at the end of the summer term, and we’ve been waiting for newsletter space until now to report on it. NAC mounted a hugely ambitious production of The Addams Family which delighted performers and audiences alike. Afterwards, the college wrote to Darren and Kate Philp, in whose daughter’s name was established the Ella Philp Fund (EPF) to support schools with musical theatre productions.

“After reflecting on a successful Addams Family show week, I would like to express our gratitude to The Helen Foundation for the EPF fund so generously offered to us. All the students performed with passion, professionalism and energy throughout all the rehearsals and shows. As I am sure you appreciate, funding in schools is in quite a difficult situation and as a result our production funding has reduced. There are many different aspects of the production which are essential such as the show licence and Cue Lab lighting licence. These two licences take up almost all our production budget, which therefore doesn't leave very much at all for costumes, set and props. As a result of your generous fund, we were able to cover most of the licence cost which could then free up some funds in the budget for a live band and better costumes which looked absolutely fantastic. All staff and students are incredibly grateful and are already looking forward to planning next year's

production. 

The students said afterwards:

“I learned how to work even better with a team, and it has helped me improve my dancing skills. The casting was very good, and I don’t think anyone could have done it any better.”

“Taking part in the show has been an amazing experience and I have made so many memories. There’s a really lovely community of people brought together through this show.”

“As we progressed with the production, I learnt to be confident with my voice. It’s been such a fun experience, and I’ve loved every second of it.”

“Taking part in The Addams Family was the highlight of my year. I have learnt so much about acting and performing because of this school, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”