A Year 12 pupil, and the Framlingham College Drama department, have been recognised for their outstanding Oliver! production at the prestigious NODA awards.
The National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) Awards showcases the very best of amateur theatre, celebrating the dedication and contributions of individuals who have devoted their time and talent to the region’s vibrant artistic community.
In the 2023 awards which took place on April 7, Framlingham College was proud to be nominated for ‘Best Youth Production’ in the East of England, with Year 12 pupil Katherine W winning ‘Best Youth Performer’ for her role as Nancy in our Christmas production of Lionel Bart’s Oliver!
‘Best Youth Performer’ winner Katherine W as Nancy in Oliver!
Talking about Katherine’s performance as a ‘sheer joy to watch’ with ‘one of the best’ renditions heard in amateur theatre, NODA’s East Representative, Catherine Dixey said: “Katherine portrays maturity beyond her years, with a very demanding role showing tenderness, compassion, and massive emotion even in the face of danger to herself. All of the singing from the whole cast is of a high standard, but Katherine as Nancy is absolutely extraordinary, with one of the best renditions I think I have ever heard on the amateur stage performing the song ‘As Long As He Needs Me’.”
Framlingham College was proud to be nominated for ‘Best Youth Production’ in the East of England
The NODA Youth Awards recognise outstanding contributions by young talents to encourage and celebrate the passion and commitment of young performers and theatre enthusiasts.
Also in attendance at the awards ceremony alongside Katherine were fellow Oliver! castmates Lottie B (who played Oliver) and Tilda H (who played Fagin) who both took to the stage during the event to perform their solos for the 450 guests in attendance.
The Framlingham College production of Lionet Bart’s Oliver! was a sold-out show directed by Ted Moore, with choreography by Sarah Hastings, and musical directors Lucy Bloore and Dominic Nunn.
Talking about the show, which took place back in December 2023, Catherine said: “It is always a pleasure to return to this beautiful theatre at Framlingham College, however this was the first time I have seen them produce a musical and it was a sheer joy to watch. With a cast of over 50 students and a full orchestra of twelve under Ted Moore‘s experienced direction, the cast produced a first class highly enjoyable show.”
Katherine W (far right) alongside our brilliant cast of Oliver! at the NODA Awards
College Director of Music, Lucy Bloore, said: “Our nomination alongside Katherine’s amazing win is a fantastic achievement, especially as many youth productions in our area are put on by specialist youth theatre companies. We feel very proud and lucky to work with such awesome young people. We believe that there is talent in everyone, you’ve just got to be able to encourage them to share it.”
Look back at all the highlights from our Oliver! Production below!
