Day 12: Journey to Scotland: Under Goes Over the Top

We gave our final performance of Under the Influence today at 1:25 pm and the cast gave one of their best performances.  It was a great way to close out our run of Under.  We also had such a supportive audience from Mid-Pacific Institute from Hawaii and, I think, a school from Tennessee.  It is safe to say that this was our best audience at the Fringe.  Many tears, compliments and celebrations after the performance.

We had lunch back at the dorm and then later saw a production of Honk Jr. . . . great production, fun cast and talented ensemble vocals as well as leads.  As we were leaving, we were asked to see a production from Minnesota entitled The Ice Fishing Play, apparently the school that was supposed to the audience did not show up so they ask NPAC if we could sit in.  What a wonderful surprise . . . the play had comedy, touching moments, and a plot twist.  The acting was so smooth and natural.  Many of said that this was our favorite production of all that we saw so far at the Fringe.

We returned back to the dorms for a pizza tea (party).  It's been quite a journey and the last two days will be busy with a few more shopping excursions and tour of Edinburgh Castle, and of course a few more shows.  Hard to believe its coming to an end.

 Photo with tech crew at The Grand Theatre

Day 11: Journey to Scotland: 3rd Performance

NPAC in front of Church Hill Theatre

Our 11th day on this trip began with interviews with Roy and Glen of PBS Hawaii.  Each student and alumni took turns in answering questions about their experience on this trip.  


We then prepared for our 3rd performance of Under the Influence.  With the rain continuing to fall, we tried to get ready as best as we could for 3:25 pm curtain.  We knew this performance would be a challenge as the long hours and distractions would take its toll.  


The performance went fine, but not as tight as past performances, but the students gave it their all and for most of the audience (including high school from Kentucky, thank you!), it didn't matter as they were supportive and many were moved by the students' performances.  I am amazed at how the NPAC students are able to perform a play that is so emotionally draining, time and time again.  I have no doubt that tomorrow, our final performance in Edinburgh and perhaps ever for this play, will be a hit.


We then returned back to the dorms to eat dinner and prepare to see All Shook Up . . . based on Elvis songs.  The cast from El Camino High School in California gave a high energy and entertaining performance.  Strong lead cast members and great ensemble work made everyone fall in love with Elvis songs all over again.  


Just a side note . . .  we want to let everyone know that the riots that have occurred in London began a day after we left London.  But our hearts go out to everyone we met while we were there last week and we pray that everyone is safe and stays safe.

 With cast from last night's Leader of the Pack