However, audiences at Muritai School?s major production were treated to all of the above with the Dr Seuss book The Lorax coming to life on stage at the end of last term.
By Tim O?Connell
Black Sabbath and Matrix-style factory bosses saw Muritai School?s production of The Lorax given a unique yet well received overhaul. Smoke machines, strobe lighting and heavy metal are normally more associated with Spinal Tap than primary school productions. However, audiences at Muritai School?s major production were treated to all of the above with the Dr Seuss book The Lorax coming to life on stage at the end of last term. The play, based on the classic 1971 children?s book by the late American author, revolves around the efforts of the furry title character to stop the destruction of a forest of Truffula trees by the Once-ler. It is often regarded as a metaphor for the impact of industrialised society on the environment. Production organiser Matt Skilton said the school normally undertakes a major production every second year. While year 5 to 8 students were involved in a wearable art-style show every alternate year, younger students did not have such an opportunity. Mr Skilton was delighted at having the junior members of the school joining the action. ?It?s neat that we?ve got the chance to something involving the whole school.? While Muritai?s adaptation of The Lorax stayed true to the overall storyline and themes of conservation, some creative licence was taken to make it their own. The show?s soundtrack featured a wide variety of styles - from Michael Jackson-style dance routines through to Black Sabbath. Other interesting aspects of the production included a kids choir, year 7 and 8 students performing a ?stomp? dance routine, and villains dressed as Mr Smith from the Matrix movie trilogy. Mr Skilton said the feedback from those who attended the show has been extremely positive. ?I?ve had (audience members) saying they?ve been to paid performances that weren?t as good as this.? ? Mr Skilton paid tribute to the parents and teachers who helped to make The Lorax a success, in particular the creative engine room of staff Ginny Ives and Kirsten Berry. The decision to make The Lorax tied in with the efforts of pupils to attain a green-gold award in the national Enviroschools programme. The hard work appears to have paid off, with Muritai expected to receive the honour early next year.
