Children in T2 (Year 2) performed their own unique version of the famous tale of The Gingerbread Man – or as their version is known – Ginger Man! A fast-paced, action-packed adventure following the plight of a poor Ginger Man with a happy ending. The play was originally written by Head of Drama, Mr Tim Clarke, 30 years ago and the catchy songs, such as ‘Run Ginger, Run’ and ‘Happy’ were composed by former Gap Student, Mr Robin Horgan.
The King and Queen of Gondal have no idea how to make their petulant daughter, Princess Buttercup, happy and she detests all the presents they give her and even pulls a Barbie doll’s head off in disgust. The desperate Royal couple issue a proclamation that whoever can make her happy will be showered with gold….or else their heads will be chopped off. The Head Chef bakes the largest Gingerbread Man as a gift for the demanding Princess but he miraculously comes to life and escapes those around him who see him as a delicious treat. Ginger Man manages to run away from all sorts: robbers, woodland fairies, ‘oldies’, mermaids and sea creatures and even Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. Luckily, the brave Super Grannies come to Ginger’s rescue on their Granny Mobile and he is finally safe.
As well as many stand-out ensemble pieces, Ginger Man also showcased a dance and song from each of the three T2 classes. Audience participation was a must with air guitar miming and dancing to classics such as ‘Sweet Child of Mine’ and ‘Mamma Mia’, much to the delight of the children! Highlights included helium balloons resembling chopped off heads which rose to the ceiling, a hectic car chase, the Robin Hood song on repeat and the jelly fish rocks song.
One parent commented, ‘It was wonderful to see all the children filled with such joy and excitement at performing a piece that they had worked so hard at preparing as a team and to a live audience’ while another said, ‘We loved the humour and singing and involvement of one and all.’
