On Saturday, April 14, the Tenterden Rotary Club hired the Sinden Theatre at Homewood School, Ashford Road, Tenterden , to present the show “Come Alive”. They wanted to give an opportunity to local groups to work together and perform for the local community whilst raising funds for their charities, like Starfish Malawi, Woodchurch (carriage) Driving Group Riding for the Disabled Association , and other Rotary Charitable Projects. There were two shows, at 2pm and at 5pm. Hannah Carter who is Director of the Zenzero Performing Arts School in Ashford, produced and directed the shows.
There were seven different dance groups, with members ranging from four years old to teenagers, who performed throughout the day. The children, all dressed up in lovely costumes, waited in the corridors for their turn and seemed very excited and eager to appear on stage. They were rewarded by the appreciative audience, including family members of the performers, with loud applause.
Hannah said: “We recognise the value of children’s hobbies and believe that participating in dance and performing arts gives them a sense of belonging and experience of being part of a team. It stimulates emotional and physical development.” By the afternoon Hannah said they had already raised about £4,000, way above what was expected.
The Rye Ukulele Experiment was asked to add to the musical extravaganza in both shows, which the audiences seemed to really enjoy, clapping enthusiastically and asking for more, some even joining in songs they knew. During the waiting periods there was a lovely garden in which to relax, in the beautiful surroundings at the back of the school.
The Sinden Theatre, which opened in 2004, was converted into a theatrical venue by Homewood School, when they were granted Arts College status in 2003. It offers a variety of performances, the school’s own productions, amateur dramatic groups and also as a commercial theatre which hosts visiting performers. Various charities are able to hold functions on a no fee basis. For some productions the theatre can provide restaurant/bar facilities and a lovely garden to sit in. For any further information about shows and to book tickets, visit the website or phone the box office on 01580 763 826.
Photos: main image Daniela D’Amato, others Heidi Foster and Rye News library