This quote highlights the depth and complexity of drama, emphasizing that what is left unsaid can be just as powerful as the spoken word, a sentiment that resonates with students learning to appreciate both the visible and invisible elements of theatre.
Whether you dream of performing in full-scale productions, prefer working behind the scenes, or simply want to try something new and unlock your creative potential, Cranleigh offers a place for every student to discover, nurture, and celebrate their talent.
Drama at Cranleigh is taken incredibly seriously, immersing students in a culture of creativity, professionalism, and ambition. Many of our alumni consider their involvement in drama a defining moment of their school experience, with the transferable skills they gained serving them well in both higher education and the performing arts industry. Our graduates have gone on to train at prestigious institutions like Bristol Old Vic, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts NYC, Arts Ed, LSMT, Oxford School of Drama, Mountview and Central School of Speech and Drama, with many launching successful careers in theatre, film, and production.
PRODUCTIONS
From our stunning full-scale productions to our high-energy smaller plays, drama at Cranleigh is where talent is nurtured, ambitions are realised, and unforgettable memories are made. Behind the scenes, students are just as pivotal, mastering technical skills, designing sets, running lighting and sound, and taking on leadership roles that empower them to shape every production.Recent shows have included:
- West Side Story
- The Girl on the Train
- immersive adaptation, Neverland
- We Will Rock You
- High School Musical
- Shakespeare in Love
- Little Shop of Horrors
- Moana
The National Theatre Awards 2025
In 2025, our thrilling production of The Girl on the Train swept the National Theatre Awards, winning Best Actress, and earned our cast the incredible honour of performing at the prestigious Gillian Lynne Theatre. Looking ahead, in 2026, we’ll take The Sound of Music to the New Wimbledon Theatre, performing to an audience of 1,600, and showcasing our students’ incredible talent on a grand scale.
House Drama Competition
The annual House Drama competition is one of the highlights of the school year for many of our students. Swapping between a film and play each year this entirely student-led production is an opportunity for many Cranleighans to try out drama for the first time or take on a leadership role as one of the house directors. The week long showcase of students’ work culminates in a special awards ceremony for all involved with trophies awarded in various categories by a visiting special guest.
LAMDA
Cranleigh boasts a specialist team of LAMDA teachers, dedicated to supporting students in achieving graded LAMDA examinations to Grade 8 Gold Medal. Courses currently offered include Acting, Musical theatre and Verse and Prose delivered in either solo, duo or group lessons.
That Face
Moana Junior
Little Shop of Horrors
Once Upon A Myth
Shakespeare in Love
King Charles III
Punk Rock
A Midsummer Night's Dream
