A Winning Performance: The Other Side of the Net

This year’s Senior School production, featuring pupils from Years 7–11, brought energy, humour, and an important social message to the stage with a performance of The Other Side of the Net.

Written by local composer Emily Roberts, the musical followed a season on the women’s professional tennis tour, beginning at the US Open in New York before travelling through Melbourne and Paris. Alongside the excitement of competitive sport, the production explored the darker side of modern fame, offering a thoughtful commentary on the online abuse and cyber-bullying faced by professional athletes through the “other net” — the internet.

Mrs Reece first saw the premiere performance by Drip Drop Theatre at Ripon Arts Hub in April 2025 and was inspired to bring the production to Cundall Manor. Emily Roberts kindly granted permission for the school to adapt the show and generously supported changes to suit the cast and production style. The school was delighted to welcome Emily, along with members of the original cast, to attend the performance.

Complete with a live acoustic band, stylish sportswear, lively tennis commentators, on-court action, impressive racquet work, and even the occasional bowl of strawberries and cream, the production proved both entertaining and thought-provoking. The story culminated in a powerful finale at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the female players united to take a stand against online trolls.

The production also showcased the teamwork and dedication of pupils behind the scenes, with students taking responsibility for stage management, props, microphones, and technical support throughout the performances.

Reflecting on the show, Mrs Reece said:

“I was impressed not only with the pupils’ performances, but also with the way they all took ownership of the production, being really proactive about stage management, and taking responsibility for props, microphones and each other. Special mention must go to the Leckby pupils for being a fantastic sound tech team, and to Arya for being a most unflappable and efficient stage manager.”

The performances were a wonderful celebration of confidence, highlighting the depth of talent across the Senior School community.