Barcelona 2010

By Hannah Catchpole (Head Girl 2007)

After months of rehearsals it was time to embark on a first for ARTS (and for the airline!!!) – we were off to Barcelona! Stood in Stansted airport, little did the air stewards/stewardess’ know what was about to board their plane. Hand luggage cases fit to burst, costume accessories being worn to board the plane (as they were too big for the cases!), lots of smiling faces and excitement building with every step of our journey, and finally we were off on our adventure.

Once we had completed what seemed a very quick flight into Barcelona we were soon at the parks hotel, checking in and settling into our rooms. We had arrived a day early so were able to enjoy the park and its facilities straight away, making good use of all the rides and eateries! The biggest surprise of the day was watching one of the parks shows on the stage we would be performing on the next day – it was huge!!!!!

Tomorrow soon came around and as ARTS took over the breakfast area there was a real ‘show buzz’ taking place. We all fuelled ourselves well for a very busy day and we even had a visit from the cookie monster over breakfast! Our troupe was taken to the theatre and given a talk by Mardi Gras about what was going to happen for the rest of the day. We used the very back of the auditorium to get ourselves ready for the show before the audience were allowed in. After a quick photoshoot outside it was time for our 20 minute show. What a wonderful experience for all involved, we really did have the best time performing our ‘circus show’.

The rest of the week was spent enjoying everybody’s company and making some of the best memories that we will all treasure forever. I am sure that some of the stories will be told for many years to come. Thank you ARTS and Mardi Gras for such a wonderful experience!