Performing arts students at Adam Smith College showed they have put the uncertainty of recent weeks firmly behind them as they prepare for their final public performances of the year.
Staff and students had feared the department would be phased out after college management felt the subject was no longer viable, but it emerged this month that the provision will be saved for the time being after a high-profile defence of theatre arts was launched by students.
Against that backdrop, the performing arts students will mark something of a milestone for the department on Friday when they take to the main stage at the Adam Smith Theatre for the very first time.
Even when the courses were based at the theatre, performances were within the Beveridge Suite, so this week will be the first time in more than 30 years of producing plays and musicals that the students will grace the main stage.
Artistic director Hugh Loughlan said he was delighted to work with Frank Chinn from Arts and Theatres Trust Fife (AttFife) to make it possible.
“It is the start of an exciting collaboration between AttFife and the college, as Frank and I see so many possibilities which will benefit the Fife performance venues working with our performing arts students,” he said.
“This is particularly the case with the development of the new HND technical theatre, as one of our soon-to-be graduates is already employed by the trust.”Adult contentThe students are putting the finishing touches to their production of Spring Awakening, which is an adaptation of the play set in late 19th century Germany where teenagers discover their sexuality.
Originally banned due to its portrayal of explicit sexual content, the musical uses alternative rock as part of a folk-infused score although, because of its content, it is recommended for over 14s.
“Students have worked so hard on this show, not only for themselves to pass their assessments but to prove to the college that our students deserve to continue with their training at this college,” added curriculum head Maggie MacMillan.
Performances will take place on Friday and Saturday at Kirkcaldy’s Adam Smith Theatre at 7.30pm both evenings and tickets, priced £9 and £5, will be available at the door, or by calling 01592 583302.