
On 9th June, the Performing Arts Department were delighted to welcome Mark from Squire Stage Combat for an outstanding workshop day at King’s, bringing together 30 pupils from King’s 3rd and 4th Form alongside new 3rd Form pupils from Hazlegrove, All Hallows and Sherborne Prep.
The day was expertly structured, offering a dynamic and highly engaging introduction to stage combat techniques suitable for both stage and screen. In the morning session, pupils built a strong foundation in hand-to-hand combat and were introduced to basic sword fighting techniques, all delivered with clarity, precision and an emphasis on safety and performance quality.
Under Mark’s superb direction, the group quickly developed confidence and skill, culminating in the staging and rehearsal of Act 1, Scene 1 from Romeo and Juliet. This provided a fantastic opportunity for pupils to apply their newly acquired techniques in a dramatic context, bringing energy, focus and storytelling together in an impressive final outcome.
It was a brilliant day, full of energy and enthusiasm. Pupils learned a great deal and gained invaluable skills that will feed directly into their GCSE Drama devising work and future productions.
Huge thanks to Mark for leading such an inspiring and professional session. We highly recommend Squire Stage Combat and very much look forward to welcoming him back to King’s in the future.
Will Stainton - Head of Performing Arts
