From Workshop to West End: GCSE Drama Students Explore 'Mary Page Marlowe' at the Old Vic

On Monday 13 October, Year 10 GCSE Drama students took part in their first workshop with The Old Vic Schools, where they explored directing several scenes from Mary Page Marlowe by Tracy Letts.

Just a few days later, on Wednesday 16 October, they had the exciting opportunity to watch the full production at The Old Vic, bringing their workshop work vividly to life on stage.

The play’s cast included standout performances from Susan Sarandon and Andrea Riseborough, who portrayed Mary Page Marlowe at different stages of her life. Other key cast members included Rosy McEwen, Eleanor Worthington‑Cox, Alisha Weir, Clare Hughes, and Hugh Quarshie.

One student shared their excitement, saying: “I recognised lines from the scene I helped direct — hearing them in full performance made me feel proud and gave real weight to what we’d worked on.”

A big thank you to Ms Okai and Ms Tyrell for organising the event, and to Mr Rhodes for accompanying the students on the trip.

Students are now looking forward to their second workshop and the chance to take part in a production of A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic in Term 1B.