AQ Theatre to London

            For the first time ever in Aquinas history, during Spring Break 2016, the Aquinas Theatre Department will be going on an educational excursion to London, England. The trip has generated a great deal of excitement among students and faculty alike. I sat down with Mrs. Krickmire, the point person who orchestrated it all, to get the inside scoop on the trip.

Shakespeare's house 

            Mrs. Krickmire, who is also the director of theatre here at Aquinas, explained that she chose London because so much of its extensive history and vibrant culture is based in the arts. “I think it’s a theatre city. The theatre department has always wanted to take a trip somewhere that offered them a lot of theatrical viewing and workshops….” She mentioned that many students were exposed to workshops at the New York State Theatre Education Association conference, which is an organization dedicated to theatre education for all students. “But I felt that the kids needed something more.”

            Well, a trip across the Atlantic to the famous, bustling city of London is much more indeed. The city is the birthplace of English playwright William Shakespeare, and the home of many famous performance halls including the Swan Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the newly reconstructed Globe Theatre. When asked what she personally is most thrilled about for the trip, Mrs. Krickmire answered excitedly, “sitting in the Globe Theatre.” Among other things, the trip will take students to four theatre productions, a Bollywood dance class, and on multiple tours including London, Windsor, Oxford, Stratford and more. 

London's Globe Theatre

            As far as history goes, the city of London has a whole world of historical landmarks waiting to be explored. The trip itinerary takes travelers to the famous British Museum, the Tower of London, the breathtaking Christ Church Cathedral, and to The Tower of St. Michael, to name a few. Travelers will also be given a couple of days to explore the intriguing city at their own leisure.

            Mrs. Krickmire explained that she had taken a school trip to London when she was a student as well. “But not in high school. It took me until junior [year of] college to get there.…” An opportunity such as this is rare, and students are encouraged to take full advantage of it. Anyone interested in learning more is welcome to sign up outside of Mrs. Krickmire’s office. As they say in London, “cheerio!”

By: Jasmine Benjamin