Performing Arts is a vibrant part of life at the Grove, giving pupils opportunities to perform, create, collaborate and develop their confidence both on stage and behind the scenes.
Through Drama and Music, pupils can explore existing talents or discover something completely new. From major school productions, concerts and ensembles to technical theatre, music technology and smaller performance opportunities, there are many ways to become involved — whether a pupil already loves performing or is stepping onto a stage for the first time.
Drama at the Grove gives pupils the opportunity to perform, collaborate and experience the excitement of bringing a production to life.
Our programme of productions provides opportunities across different age groups, with pupils able to take part regardless of whether they study Drama academically. From senior productions and musicals to junior performances and showcases, the school calendar offers plenty of opportunities to rehearse, perform and work as part of an ensemble.
Pupils can also become involved behind the scenes through technical theatre, learning about lighting, sound and the work that goes into creating a successful production.
Alongside performances at school, Drama pupils have opportunities to experience professional theatre through visits, workshops and encounters with people working within the industry.
Music at the Grove is broad, energetic and open to pupils with a wide range of musical interests and experience.
There are opportunities to perform across a varied programme of ensembles, including Jazz Band, Orchestra, Flute Group, Sax Group, Brass Group and Swing Band. Pupils in Years 7–13 can also get involved in rock bands, while our three choirs — Pop Choir, Grove Singers and the 1812 Choir — offer different routes into vocal performance.
For pupils interested in the technical and production side of music, there are opportunities beyond traditional performance too. DJ Club gives pupils the chance to explore mixing and live music skills, while Junior and Senior Tech Club provide after-school opportunities for KS3 and KS4 pupils to develop experience in sound, lighting and technical production.
Whether joining an ensemble, singing in a choir, performing in a band or exploring what happens behind the scenes, pupils are encouraged to find the area of music that suits them and become part of the wider Performing Arts community.
Performance is at the heart of Performing Arts at the Grove, but there is just as much opportunity to get involved behind the scenes as there is on stage.
Throughout the year, pupils take part in plays, musicals, concerts, showcases and other performances, bringing together actors, musicians, singers and technical crews from across the school.
Autumn Term: Senior Production (Years 9–13), Year 7 and 8 Spotlight Showcase, Chamber Concert, and Winter Concert
Spring Term: Chamber Concert, End of Term Concert
Summer Term: Junior Production (Years 7–8), Summer Concert
For those interested in the production side of performance, opportunities include lighting, sound, technical theatre, recording and music technology. Pupils can gain hands-on experience supporting productions and events, developing practical skills while playing an essential role in bringing each performance to life.
These experiences encourage creativity, teamwork and commitment, while giving pupils the chance to contribute in the way that suits them best — whether under the spotlight or behind it.