"It is a real pleasure to work with Bernadette. Whether building sets or creating bespoke leather Commedia dell’arte masks. Her work highlights an art form that is truly democratic, allowing us to laugh at the absurdities of our existence and the foibles of both rich and poor. The masks themselves are palpably transformative, bringing a thrilling dimension to education. We often forget our many possibilities as individuals, and offering a student the chance to wear a mask is a powerful way to explore this fundamental human quality. 

It is a common misconception that drama is somehow a less valuable subject in the curriculum. Yet, where else can a student genuinely develop essential emotional and physical confidence, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and narrative skills? These are abilities that compliment and underlie all other subjects. Its not about becoming an actor, its about learning to become a fulfilled human being.These are precisely the skills employers are crying out for.

The very subject that fosters human connection and collaboration is often undervalued. We have to ask ourselves why, especially when, at the most basic balance sheet level, we know these skills lead to happier, more productive teams across all aspects of working life.

The Complete Commedia Company represents a genuinely positive and essential step in redressing this balance."