Jane's Pocket Change: HWAET...

Recently, we were treated to a final exam on the Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf (A Thousand Years of Baggage), a brilliant, playful yet thought-provoking romp through the ancient epic poem that I have enjoyed teaching here over the years to tenth graders, and this year’s spring musical.
Recently, we were treated to a final exam on the Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf (A Thousand Years of Baggage), a brilliant, playful yet thought-provoking romp through the ancient epic poem that I have enjoyed teaching here over the years to tenth graders, and this year’s spring musical. 
 
It was truly a treat: two Beowulfs, three kings, one queen, five monsters-in-one, three moms (all surpassing Angelina Jolie!) and five parts to the dragon. Yes, it was a formidable cast (and crew) of thousands! Oh, and I forgot to mention the brilliant yet brief appearance of English Teacher Mark Santa Maria and yours truly as the bearers of the book of Beowulf to open up each night’s performances.
 
This spring’s musical theatre production was a treat for several reasons:

  1. Words and music creators Jason Craig and Dave Malloy attended the show on Friday—and they saw a company, other than their own, perform the show. They were wowed.
  2. The respect for the original poem was evident throughout the show and those of us who know it fairly well enjoyed the humor at an even deeper level.
  3. All the performers seemed to be having a good time—and were on stage in character for the entire show even if they were just hanging out being Admirers, Students or Lake Critters.
  4. The Academics sparred with words, pronunciations and challenged the deeper meaning behind the action.
  5. The dragon appearing out of the book of Beowulf was possibly the most brilliant thing I have ever seen on CSW’s or any other stage.
Congratulations to the cast, theatre and ASL department faculty, student co-director, designers, musicians and crew. Hwaet (Lo), this was a beautiful show to behold!

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Pocket Change is a web diary written by Jane Moulding, head of school.

The Cambridge School of Weston is a progressive high school for day and boarding students in grades 9–12 and PG. CSW's mission is to provide a progressive education that emphasizes deep learning, meaningful relationships, and a dynamic program that inspires students to discover who they are and what their contribution is to their school, their community and the world.