Christmas Concerts
and Performances
Seasonal music, dance and acting!
Key Stage 3 ‘Songs and Scenes of Christmas’
In a heart-warming collaboration, pupils from Years 7, 8, and 9 joined together to enchant Prep School pupils, parents, and carers with a delightful afternoon and evening of festive performances on Wednesday 29 November.
Year 8 began, with a pantomime where Captain Hook and his pirate crew swiped all the pantomime props. Then, Hannah, Gretel, a child, and her toy unicorn embarked on a journey to save Christmas by recovering the stolen items. Along the way, they ventured through numerous fairy tales, encountering a variety of characters portrayed using different performance styles. The unfolding scenes were complemented by fitting music performed or sung by fellow pupils. The audience thoroughly enjoyed participating and erupted in cheers when the day was ultimately saved.
Next, Year 9 showcased their favourite Christmas songs, featuring not only group performances but also solos and duets. The performances highlighted some truly beautiful vocals and impressive instrumental skills. Additionally, the pupils crafted short scenes inspired by seasonal themes, offering a mix of humour and thought-provoking moments. The audience delighted in the range of talent displayed by our Year 9 class!
Closing the festivities, Year 7 graced the stage with an ensemble presentation of excerpts from Dylan Thomas's 'Child's Christmas in Wales' and traditional carols. Radiant in their Christmas jumpers, they had the audience joyfully singing along to 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas.'
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in an evening that successfully kicked off our run-up to Christmas!
Pre-School and Key Stage 1 Nativity
On Monday 11 December, our youngest pupils from Pre-School, Reception, and Years 1 and 2 showcased their 'Twinkly Nativity' to an audience of parents, teachers, and the broader school community.
The charming performance was the culmination of weeks of dedicated practice and effort by both the children and their teachers.
A notable highlight were the ballet dancers, who captivated the audience and showcased the benefits of our weekly ballet club led by Pre-School Manager, Miss Spencer.
Senior Inter-House Christmas Song Contest
On Thursday 14 December, Rydal Penrhos witnessed the triumphant return of a cherished tradition – the Christmas Song Contest. This festive showdown saw the school's four senior houses - Morgan, Osborn, Payne, and Wesley - sing their hearts out in pursuit of this year's bragging rights.
Renowned for garnering enthusiastic participation from pupils of all ages, the Christmas Song Contest at Rydal Penrhos is a showcase of musical skill, creativity, and holiday cheer. This year was no different, as each house spared no effort in crafting an unforgettable Christmas song performance. From soul-stirring vocals to meticulous musical arrangements, choreography, and captivating audio-visual enhancements, every detail was considered to ensure a spectacular show.
Following four stellar performances, Director of Music Mr McGuinness faced the challenging task of selecting a winner. In the end, Wesley emerged victorious by a slim margin, outshining Morgan's rendition of 'All I Want for Christmas is You.'
Wesley pupils donned Santa hats and carried heart-shaped balloons in the signature red colour associated with their house. In the end, their performance of 'Merry Christmas Everyone' had everyone clapping.
Congratulations to Wesley, who are now second in the House Cup race, just behind current leaders, Morgan!
Christmas Carol Service
On December 14, Rydal Penrhos pupils, parents, alumni, Governors, and friends gathered for the Christmas Carol Service.
This time-honoured event, uniting the school community in a celebration of Christmas, saw classic carols like 'Once in Royal David's City,' 'Silent Night,' and 'Joy to the World' resonate through the venue.
School Chaplain Rev'd Rob Beamish led the service, with the Heads of School from the Prep and Senior sections delivering readings. Thank you to all attendees for making this a memorable festive occasion.