Find out more
This August, Wellington College’s Bad Dukes Theatre company enjoyed an extraordinary and unforgettable run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with Make Your Mirror Be Me, performing ten enthusiastically received performances at Underbelly Cowgate.
Written by acclaimed theatre-maker Kirsty Housley and directed by Director of Drama James Hammond, the production combined original music, movement, folklore and contemporary themes in an ambitious and atmospheric piece of ensemble theatre. Featuring an original song by Isla J and original music by JJ M and Rufus P, the production wove live performance and musicianship into a richly imaginative theatrical experience. Reviewers praised the show’s striking visual design, live music, imaginative direction and the commitment and talent of the young cast. The Stage described it as a production “strong on atmosphere”, while another four-star review highlighted its “scale and ambition”, noting the confidence, musicianship and creativity of the ensemble. Critics also commended the energy, charisma and promise shown by the company throughout its Fringe run.
Beyond their own performances, pupils immersed themselves fully in festival life, attending nearly forty productions across the city and engaging with one of the world’s greatest celebrations of theatre and the performing arts. The experience exposed them to an extraordinary range of styles, ideas and artists, providing inspiration that will undoubtedly influence their own work in the years ahead.
The trip was a tremendous success, showcasing the creativity, resilience and professionalism of Wellington’s young performers. The review from Roviews eloquently stated: “The production looks terrific, the musicianship is strong, the direction has imagination and the young cast throw themselves into it.” We are immensely proud of everything the cast and crew achieved and grateful to everyone who supported the production both in Edinburgh and from home.
