Magic in the Making: Rehearsing The Bubblegum Tree

Excitement is building as pupils prepare for this year’s highly anticipated Senior Play, The Bubblegum Tree. This not-to-be-missed production is set against the backdrop of Berlin in 1973, unfolding in a divided Germany at the height of the Cold War.

In East Berlin, an ambitious young choreographer plans a ballet production that will amaze the world and prove that East German culture is thriving under the Communist regime. As rehearsals begin, a daring plan for a performance in West Berlin is hatched. But there are forces at work that cannot be ignored. The Stasi secret police are listening, and in West Berlin, a group of reckless schoolchildren are hatching a foolhardy plan that could jeopardise not only the project but the lives of the dancers involved.

Pupils have been rehearsing in The Burrell Theatre, mastering lines and choreography to ensure audiences are captivated when the show opens in November. Mr Oldfield, Director of Drama at Truro School, says, “This is an amazing play and has only ever been performed once before. Jon Welch is an incredible playwright, and we are very lucky to be able to stage one of his works. Our cast has tackled a complex script, portraying a range of characters in the tense, divided Berlin of the Cold War”.

“Our fabulous choreographer, Tee J Randal, has put them through their paces. They must represent a professional ballet company rehearsing for a major show. The choreography is expressive and requires the cast to fully invest in the world of the play. Designer Annie Lucas (Chicago) is sourcing a range of authentic 1970s costumes that will bring the company to life. We are staging the show in a dynamic configuration, with three-quarters in the round, fully immersing the audience in the action”.

Mr Oldfield concluded, “The Bubblegum Tree is a captivating thriller set in a sinister regime, where the brightness of human life shines through. Sensitively written, with wit and authenticity, it is a theatrical treat.”

Celia, Year 13, is one of Truro School’s most experienced performers. Playing Petra, one of the lead roles, she has been involved in school drama since nursery. She said, “I first remember being involved in plays with Mrs Gregory at the Prep. Those early productions inspired me and sparked my love of drama. My brother, a few years older, took part in the senior plays with Mr Oldfield, and I was always inspired by the shows he was involved in.

“The drama programme at Truro School is incredible. I’m taking Drama A-Level, and I recently had my first exam. It was hard work, but it paid off as the audience really loved my performance. I’ve applied to study English at university, and I hope to work in theatre afterwards, whether in performance, writing, or directing.

“Truro School has given me so many opportunities, and I’ve made amazing ‘vertical friendships’ with pupils across all year groups. I’ve been able to explore every aspect of theatre, from performing onstage to working backstage, helping with technical elements, choreography, and directing. I recently directed the Sixth Form production of The Importance of Being Ernest, which was a real highlight for me, along with our performance of Macbeth a few years ago, which I was completely obsessed with.”

Talking about The Bubblegum Tree, Celia added, “The play has some adult themes, and I’ve been so impressed with how professionally the younger pupils have tackled them. I also love the comic moments, which provide a welcome light relief from the more serious elements of the story.”

We also spoke to Ben, Year 11, who commented, “I’ve been part of the drama department for a while now, and this production has been an amazing experience. Henning is a really interesting character – he gives bubblegum to a girl in East Berlin who turns to him for help. Working on this play has boosted my confidence and strengthened my teamwork skills in ways I didn’t expect.”

Yuqi, who plays Karen, said, “Karen has a crush on Henning, which leads to some really fun and dramatic moments, especially when Klaus exposes our secret and a catfight breaks out! Being part of the production has taught me how to stay organised and manage my time better, both on stage and in my day-to-day life.”

Stella, Matilda, Evie, and Alice play The Wesley Girls. Alice, a Drama Scholar who previously worked in the costume department, is thrilled to be performing on stage this year. All four are taking Drama GCSE and LAMDA and have been eagerly involved since the auditions in January.

Year 8 pupil Ava, one of the youngest in the cast, is taking part in her first large-scale production. Supported by older cast members, she hopes to continue exploring drama and eventually take it as a GCSE option.

In addition to performing, pupils have the opportunity to work in the tech department, assisting with lighting, props, and costumes. Everyone is dedicated to the production, and the Wednesday rehearsal sessions have been particularly valuable and fun, allowing pupils to develop new skills while preparing for what promises to be a truly professional performance.

Don’t miss it!

Truro School’s production of The Bubblegum Tree takes place at The Burrell Theatre from 19–22 November 2025. Tickets are selling fast – get yours here. 

“The Bubblegum Tree is a captivating thriller set in a sinister regime, where the brightness of human life shines through. Sensitively written, with wit and authenticity, it is a theatrical treat.”