Celebrating the creative tapestry of Arts Week 2024

We are delighted to share with you the highlights of this year’s Haileybury Arts Week, a vibrant celebration of the visual arts, drama, music, and the spoken word that took place from 18 to 23 June. This year’s theme, “A Human Chain,” explored the profound connectivity of all human life, underscoring the value and flourishing state of the arts at Haileybury.

The week commenced with two standout events. On 18 June, Dr. Gary Wade delivered the Arts Week Lecture, delving into the theme of the human chain of love in the poetry of Seamus Heaney. Later that evening Hugh Rowlands, Deputy Director of Music and College Organist, gave a mesmerising opening recital on the chapel organ. His performance included Bach’s extraordinary Passacaglia and Schumann’s evocative Canonic Etudes, alongside contemporary compositions by Martin Martin, Cecilia McDowell, and Judith Weir.

Throughout the week, pupils took center stage in a variety of performances and exhibitions. The three lunchtime “Soundbite Concerts” showcased the musical talents of our pupils, while “A Night on Broadway” on Wednesday evening brought the magic of musical theatre to life. Thursday featured two wonderful celebrations of Shakespeare, highlighting the timeless relevance of his works with intimate outdoor performances dotted around campus. The Speech Day Art Show Preview offered a glimpse into the creative endeavours of our pupils, and the long-standing tradition of Madrigals by the Pond in Great Amwell returned for its 81st year, enchanting audiences with traditional English madrigals and other secular music. “Pop on Pavilion” added an alternative flavour to the weekend, where soloists and bands took to the stage with contemporary hits and original songs.

The week concluded with a beautiful Festival Service in the Chapel on Sunday morning, featuring a feast of readings and music performed by the Chamber Choir and Chapel Choir. This service was a fitting end to a week that celebrated the artistic life of our beloved community.

The success of this year’s Arts Week underscores our commitment to nurturing and valuing the arts within our community. Congratulations to the hundreds of Haileyburians who devoted themselves to this dynamic celebration.