Mary’s is proud to be the home of a vibrant, diverse and inclusive Arts Community. Stretching across music, drama, dance and art, we provide the opportunity for our students to explore and enjoy a wealth of disciplines! With so many societies and fantastic events being held across the year, the Arts have become firmly integrated into college life and there are plenty of opportunities to either continue to do something that you love, or try your hand at something new!
Perhaps our most highly anticipated event is the annual Masquerade Ball. Each year, a theme for our ball is carefully selected to inspire a unique menu, hand crafted decorations and, of course, wonderful entertainment. Whilst we take this opportunity to welcome talented performers from across the university, Masquerade Ball acts as a brilliant, large scale performance opportunity for our individual Arts Societies and in doing so, allows everyone the chance to truly appreciate and admire their work. During the week prior to the Masquerade Ball, we have our annual Arts Week, where a number of smaller events such as live lounges, life-drawing classes and crafts sessions are organised to build up to the ball.
Foot of the Hill Theatre Company stands as our hub for all things drama related. We aim to put on a production each term and this comprises of the Christmas Pantomime, a play in second term, and, once exams have passed, there is the opportunity for our students to truly throw themselves into the Summer Musical. Whether you feel that “all the world’s a stage” or perhaps, that you would flourish a little further away from the limelight- we value any skill that any person can bring to our team. We are particularly excited to meet anyone who would be keen to bring new ideas for set design, along with those who might find their calling at the lighting desk or maybe even in the Director’s chair… To join or, not to join? There is of course no question, and we will certainly look forward to another year building lasting memories within an ever evolving drama community at Mary’s.
Mary’s also boasts a fantastic Dance Society which is open to all students regardless of experience! Our main style is commercial but we also hold classes which cover different styles such as jazz, contemporary and include body conditioning. Mary’s dance has plenty of performance opportunities both college and university wide, for example at balls, fashion shows and charity events. The goal for the society this year is to build on the amazing work of Mary’s dancers last year abs continue to create a pressure free environment which allows everyone to enjoy and experience dance!
Lastly, Mary’s music scene is one that has become an integral part of the College’s identity – whatever you want to do, we can make it happen for you. From Marys Mixed Voices and Chapel Choir for singers, to Basement Jazz for Durham’s finest jazz players: we really do have something for everyone. We also have a number of music rooms within college, allowing performers within college to practice at ease.
If you have questions feel free to email the Arts President, Cerys Chadd.
(cerys.chadd@durham.ac.uk)