Momo – Class 8’s Brilliant Play

Class 8 are at this moment celebrating the 8 years they have spent with their Class Teacher, Marika, by visiting her home country, Sweden, in fact, her home town of Stockholm. They will be having an excellent time!  Just before leaving, they shared with us a spectacular performance of ‘Momo’ – a dramatic rendering of Michael Ende’s 1970’s novel about the concept of Time.  The play contrasts the natural wisdom and empathy of a young, illiterate girl, describing the warm human friendships she creates and upholds through her ability to really listen. Until, that is, the arrival of the mysterious men in grey – thieves, we soon learn, who use their sinister influence to steal time. This is a thoroughly modern-themed play about the soul-crushing effects of Consumerism on modern society.

This was a huge production, and a large cast was needed which meant that most of the students had to play 4, in one case even 5 roles; switching from one to another took flexibility, perfect timing and real co-operation. Many of this class have been together since Class 1, or even earlier, but there were 6 recent newcomers into Class 8 – and you wouldn’t have been able to pick them out – there was such a strong sense of community within the group. In addition to the fast-moving conversations in the huge parts to be learnt, the class provided their own music with harmonious singing coming from behind the scenes. The impressive scenery allowed the performers to move great distances on different levels, and both lighting and costume design spoke of the considerable expertise of the Class Teacher, Marika. There was one main part around which the story pivots – Momo herself – which was played with earnestness and warmth by Erin Johnson, with other roles admirably played by Tamsin, Luca, Echo, Vincent and Asa. No less impressive was the agility of all the others to carry their constantly switching roles.

We have special thanks for all the parents who helped with costumes, scenery and much more, for Vikki Grantham-Herbert for running the lights and for Nigel Roberts for ‘helping us realise our stage set dream and other clever things’.

This was a hugely impressive performance, greatly enjoyed by fellow pupils, families and friends for which the whole class and their teacher need to be warmly thanked and thoroughly congratulated.

Christine Polyblank