THE BIZ
COLUMBYNE HOUSE, PINE ROAD, WOKING, SURREY GU22 0DX. TEL: 01483-765548
www.thebizgroup.co.uk email [email protected]
THE BIZ SUMMER SCHOOL 2016 –SURREY
15th – 27th August 2016 (2 weeks plus performances)
Cost: £325 fee per child
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Of the Tony Award winning hit Musical INTO THE WOODS
Music and Lyric by STEPHEN SONDHEIM Book by JAMES LAPINE
To be performed at the
Rhoda McGaw Theatre, Woking
Due to overwhelming public demand, The Biz is proud to announce its next big summer school and production for 2016.
This intensive two-week course will take place 15th – 27th August 2016, Monday-Friday (plus performances on final
Friday and Saturday) culminating in fully staged performances of Into The Woods at The Rhoda McGaw Theatre in
Woking. We are delighted again this year to have the opportunity to perform at this wonderful theatre, which recently
been refurbishes and has full box office booking online. We will have full orchestra, scenery and costumes.
Following on from The Biz Theatre’s productions of Phantom of The Opera, Les Miserables, Grease, Footloose, West
Side Story, Fame etc, The Biz Theatre School and Biz Productions have consistently delivered high quality West End
style performances, and as such we have achieved national recognition from our productions (please see our web site).
The Biz will once again be using its professional production team to ensure that both you and the audience get a show to
remember.
An ambivalent Cinderella? A blood-thirsty Wolf? A Prince Charming with a roving eye? A Witch…who raps? They’re
all among the characters in James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s fractured fairy tale. We would like to invite you to
become part of this Tony award winning musical which intertwines the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales and
follows them to explore the consequences of the characters’ wishes and quests. The story involves a childless baker and
his wife on their quest to begin a family and the witch who has placed a curse on them.
What do you need to be in this production? We are looking for a cast with energy, fun, stage presence, good vocal ability,
movement and the dedication to give what it takes to be in musical theatre. You will be given an exciting opportunity to
perform in the production under the guidance of West End professionals, as part of the Biz Theatre School’s Summer
School Production. With a time constraint of only 2 weeks, it will be exciting to see the musical taking shape. The
students will be involved in acting, singing and dancing. It will be hard work but with a strong emphasis on enjoyment for
all! They will produce an exciting show and we will endeavour to ensure that the 2 weeks are great fun! The course,
which takes place Monday to Friday between 9 am and 4 pm, (plus extra rehearsals 2nd week) will help the participants to
develop confidence and performance skills and comprises of 10 days of enthusiastic and busy rehearsals and preparation
towards the climax of performances on the Friday and the Saturday in the theatre, utilising the skills learned during the
course.
Places on the Summer School are strictly limited and will be issued on a first come, first served basis. Everyone will have
the opportunity to audition for the principal roles. The cost is £325 per person and includes Rehearsals, hire of scripts,
music, most costumes, Souvenir T-Shirt and performances at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre. There will also be a small
number of stage management places available at £100 for the 2 weeks. It will be a fantastic opportunity for anyone
interested in the backstage process of putting on a show.
Director - Erika Vincent. Erika has been in show business for over thirty years since making her stage debut at the age
of four in a Royal Gala in The West End. Since then her career has taken her to the English National Opera Company at
the London Coliseum where her performances included La Traviata and Simon Boccanegra, to The Royal National
Theatre where she performed in the European premiere and Olivier award winning production of Stephen Sondheim's
Sunday in the Park With George, and The West End where her credits include creating the role of Maria Moriarty in
Sherlock Holmes with Ron Moody at the Cambridge Theatre as well as numerous productions such as West Side Story
playing Rosalia, Cynthia in Mr Cinders, Jessica in The Merchant of Venice, Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz and Suki
Tawdry in The Beggars Opera. Whilst with The English National Opera, Erika was asked to star as one of only four
soloists in An Evening with Stephen Sondheim in the West End directed by the world renowned Opera Director Keith
Warner. Erika has also starred in several pantomimes including the title role in Snow White, Alice Fitzwarren in Dick
Whittington and Maid Marion in Robin Hood. Film appearances include feature films such as Heaven's Gate with John
Hurt and Kris Krisstoferson, (directed by Michael Cimino). TV appearances include her television debut at the age of
nine in Junior Showtime, several Royal Variety Performances, Omnibus, Children in Need and recently she has appeared
on BBC’s Copycats, Xchange and Blue Peter. Cabaret appearances include performances at many prestigious venues such
as The Dorchester, Grosvenor House Hotel, The Landmark Hotel and The Intercontinental in London. Erika also has
extensive experience as a Director and Choreographer for several Musicals, Tours, Summer Seasons and Pantomimes. As
an Executive Producer, Erika has been responsible for productions such as Kind Hearts and Coronets with Robert Powell
and Colin Baker, The 39 Steps starring Simon Ward and George Sewell, The Ladykillers with Tim Brooke-Taylor, Dulcie
Gray and Brian Murphy, Passport to Pimlico with Ian Lavender and Kate O'Mara as well as pantomimes and summer
repertory seasons. Erika has also directed and produced The Phantom of The Opera, Les Miserables , Grease, Footloose,
West Side Story, Beauty and The Beast, The King and I, The Wiz, Guys and Dolls, Fame and Oliver! raising over £32,000
for local Children’s charities.
Musical Director – Sam Coates. Sam is a freelance musical director and keyboard player working on shows across the
country. He is a graduate of the University of Surrey attaining a BMus (Hons) Creative Music Technology degree, and
studied Jazz piano at Birmingham Conservatoire under Mike Williams. Sam was recently Musical Director for the
pantomime at Blackpool Grand and Musical Director/Bandleader for P&O Cruises on board the cruise liner ‘MV Azura’,
sailing around the Caribbean over the 2013/2014 winter season. MD Credits include: Les Miserables (The Palace Theatre
Redditch), DreamArts West End Gala 2014 (The Playhouse, West End), Spring Awakening (Rhoda McGaw), Fiddler on
the Roof (Nomad Theatre), Oliver! (The Palace Theatre Redditch), Billy Elliot: The Musical (Malvern Theatres), The
Witches of Eastwick (University of Surrey), Surrey Arts LIVE! (University of Surrey). Other Piano/Keyboard credits
include: Jesus Christ Superstar, Miss Saigon, Jekyll & Hyde, Chess, Guys & Dolls, Anything Goes, Titanic, All Shook Up,
Crazy for You. MD for pantomime Aladdin (Rotherham Civic Theatre). Sam was AMD for our production of Phantom of
The Opera and Les Miserables and is currently Musical Director of The Biz Theatre School as well as for the touring
musical Jersey Nights.
Tickets for the performances will be on sale from March onwards. Ticket prices are expected to be around £16
each (including 50p theatre restoration levy). It is hoped that any profits from the performances will go to
SHOOTINGSTAR CHASE, CHILDREN’S HOSPICE FOR SURREY. We have already raised over £32,000
for local Charities with our previous productions.
Reviews from the last few productions;
From parents:
Absolutely fantastic show! Well done to everyone!!!!! Thanks again - it is the highlight of her year and she gains so much from
taking part!
Congratulations on the performance last night. It was fantastic and we were so impressed by what you've achieved in such a short
time frame. One lady we spoke to said that she has been to many youth productions but this is by far the best that she's ever seen.
Just wanted to say what an amazing phenomenal show this afternoon was. My friends and family said it was as good as seeing a
west end show in London and something they will never forget or I. We wanted to say a huge thank you and so pleased she is part
of your theatre school . Words can't express how proud we are and my tears were still flowing when I got home. I'm a very proud
mum !
Last night was fantastic, you have a very talented cast but I don't know how you managed to produce such a difficult musical to
such a professional standard in such a short time frame. I went with a friend last night who is a professional theatre critic, she was
very impressed and we drove home just marvelling at how you managed to do it. It was better than many professional productions
I have seen
Just a quick note to congratulate you and your team on yet another hugely successful production! I think I still have goosebumps
from the powerful singing performances and wonderful acting we were treated to. The kids are very lucky to benefit from your
experience and skill and it was obvious that this was a hugely rewarding experience for them all.
Can't wait to find out what show you are planning for 2016 and we look forward to joining you all again!
I am almost lost for words!! Wow! Our whole family thoroughly enjoyed Les Mis and have been blown away by the totally
professional performance! It has been fantastic to see our daughter once again, grow in confidence as she is surrounded by such
lovely and talented kids and we can't thank you enough! Very well done to you and everyone involved.
I went to see your performance of Les Miserables last night at Woking. I am no relation to anyone in the cast but brought my
ticket as it was my favourite musical. I was amazed at the professionalism of the cast and the stunning voices. The songs brought
me to tears as they were so wonderful. I shall definitely keep my eye of your future performances. I think you have the making of
some future stars in your company. Thank you to all involved for a brilliant night!
We just wanted to say thanks and really well done to you and all the crew and cast for all their hard work and fantastic
performances in Grease this weekend. We thoroughly enjoyed the show and were really amazed at the talent and just how much
was achieved in such a short space of time.
I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you and your team for all your hard work and utter dedication into delivering a fantastic
show once again. All the young people were truly wonderful. We as a family are very proud to be part of The Biz.
What a lovely group of talented young people, I am sure we have seen some future stars of stage and screen. Hard to believe that
they have reached that standard in only 2 weeks!
From local press:
Les Mis 2014
With Les Misérables being such a popular show, the student cast and their creative team did an exceptional job in creating a
production that was so brilliantly received by the audience. Directed by Erika Vincent, the whole cast performed the well-known
musical with much energy and vigour. The ensemble managed to create a rich sound, with strong harmonies and passion,
providing some of the highlights of the show; the Finale being particularly impressive where the audience was brought to its feet
in a standing ovation. The orchestra filled the theatre with memorable music which along with the casts’ voices provided a superb
musical performance. The Director is to be highly commended for leading such a fine and polished production with just a ten day
rehearsal period. Being ambitious paid off for The Biz with their 10 th Summer School Production. The audience was on its feet at
the curtain call and applause was fully deserved for both the cast and the production team.
Surrey Advertiser
Grease 2013
“Talent is the Word for Theatre School-Musical fans were dazzled as young performers from The Biz Theatre School’s summer
school performed the hit show Grease at The Rhoda McGaw Theatre…The intensive preparations paid off as they delivered a
professional production.
Surrey Advertiser
West Side Story 2011
“Erika Vincent brought all that West End experience of many years to her own production of West Side Story, executed with utter
conviction by her summer school The Biz Theatre School and Biz Productions..…Choreographers Phyllida Crowley-Smith and
Jimmy Johnston did a great job of creating slick dance routines and convincing fight routines…..Much sass, attitude and finesse.
Two weeks to rehearse and perform this…. It’s an extraordinary feat! What a treat to direct the music of Bernstein and Richard
Cartmale as Musical Director did this with great aplomb! All the participants should be very proud.
Suzanne Hunter Brooklands Radio
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST “This high class production is impressive, when you add to that a young cast aged 8-21 it’s awe
inspring…This high quality production….with a 14 piece orchestra, plus professional set and costumes it was just down to the
talented cast to shine and this they certainly did. The finale was very polished, I predict there will be many who go on to enjoy
West End success from this talented theatre school”.
Leatherhead Advertiser and Surrey Mirror
‘CONSIDER YOURSELF THE BIZ-NESS!’
Last weekend, local students from The Biz Theatre Summer School staged an exceptional production of Oliver! to sell-out houses
at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre in Woking. Produced and directed by ex Royal National Theatre performer and director Erika
Vincent, the show featured an ingenious set with moving staircases as the audience was taken on a magical journey from the
opening scene at the Workhouse, to Fagin’s den, Paddington Green and the alleyways of London. The audience enjoyed a
professionally staged, beautifully lit performance. The signature solo and ensemble numbers were performed with flair and
confidence rarely seen outside the West End and a fantastic orchestra was assembled by Musical Director Marcus Suranyi. After
the highly successful production of Guys and Dolls last year, The Biz is setting the standard for student productions in Surrey. If
you missed this year’s production, be sure to book seats early for their next show.
Woking News and Mail
Finally, we need your support to make this production a success. If you think you can help in any way with backstage,
costumes, or chaperoning during performances please let us know. If you have any further queries please don’t hesitate to
contact me. I look forward to hearing from you
Yours sincerely
Erika Vincent
Principal The Biz Theatre School
[email protected].
THE BIZ
Please note terms and conditions
TERMS & CONDITIONS
 I understand that, if offered a place in the Company for 2016 the student is required to attend all rehearsals and
performances. Students will need to be available for 2 weeks - all day Monday Friday from 9.00 am – 4 pm. N.B.
some principals may be required to stay later second week tbc.
 Week 1 will be at Christ’s College, Larch Avenue, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1JY. (Fantastic performing arts
facilities conveniently situated between Woking and Guildford and near to A3) Week 2 will be at the Rhoda McGaw
Theatre (from Monday for production days).
 In addition to the rehearsals there will be performances at the theatre on Friday 26th August at 7.15pm, Saturday
27th August at 2.15pm and 7.15pm (also dress rehearsal Thursday 25th August 7.15pm)
 The course will start at 9.00am every morning and finishes promptly at 4pm (until Week 2 when they may be asked
to stay later). Arrangements must be made for the above named to be collected at the stated time of finish of any
given session. The Biz will not accept responsibility for any child who leaves any rehearsal premises without seeking
permission from an appropriate teacher. If your child is making his or her own way home or leaving the premises at
Lunchtime, you must sign permission slips. These will be provided upon acceptance and are available for candidates
over the age of 12
 Parents will be given an information pack upon receipt of this application form detailing venue and course
information
 You must provide a full packed lunch for your child each day and snacks and drinks etc.
 The full fee is due in full before the start of the course and cannot be waived in respect to any absence. No refunds
will be given.
 The Biz has the right to use both video and photographic coverage of all its students both in performance and
rehearsals. The Biz has the right to publish this material in any means it feels necessary including (but not exclusive
to) any printed and digital material and on the Biz website (www.thebizgroup.co.uk). The copyright of this material
will be owned by The Biz and must not be used without written permission.
 The Biz cannot accept liability for any items lost or stolen from any venue used for rehearsal or performance.
 The Biz reserves the right to refuse admission to rehearsals and/or public performances to anyone who is disruptive or
rude to any member of staff*, whilst also reserving the right to make alterations to venues, the teaching faculty,
rehearsals or castings of any show being produced.
 Personal details given on this form will be held on a database for communications
Book your places now for this 2 week professional Musical Theatre training course,
working with a top West End Production team which will conclude with fully staged
performances of the fantastic musical Into The Woods at The Rhoda McGaw Theatre,
with professional scenery, costumes and a live orchestra.
With some of musical theatre's most iconic songs including Agony, Stay with Me,
Giants in the Sky plus many more, The Biz’s Summer School production is going to be
enchanting. Make your wish come true by applying to take part now.
Training and rehearsals Monday 15th - Thursday 25th August.
Performances Friday 26th - Saturday 27th August 2016
At THE RHODA MCGAW THEATRE WOKING.
The Biz Theatre School and Productions always welcomes new
members, so come and be part of something very special!
THE BIZ
COLUMBYNE HOUSE, PINE ROAD,
WOKING, SURREY GU22 0DX
TEL: 01483-765548 www.thebizgroup.co.uk email [email protected]
APPLICATION FOR THE BIZ SUMMER SCHOOL 2016
15th – 27th August 2016 (2 weeks plus performances)
Cost: £325 fee per child
Please use BLACK INK and BLOCK CAPITALS and sign and return form by 1st April 2016 to THE BIZ
Name of Child…………………………………………………………………………performer/stage management (delete as required)
Parent Name & Address ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Postcode …………………Telephone (home)………………………. (mobile)…………………………emergency no……………
Email: ………………………………………………………………………….(all notices will come by email)
Date of Birth …./ …./ …….. Height (in ft/ins) ……ft ……..in.
Shoe size…….
Normal clothes size: Age……. Or Ladies dress size…….. Waist…….Chest size…… Collar (boys)………
Current school / college …………………………Any Medical conditions………………………………………………………
TERMS & CONDITIONS
 I understand that, if offered a place in the Company for 2016 the student is required to attend all rehearsals and performances.
Students will need to be available for 2 weeks - all day Monday Friday from 9.00 am – 4 pm. N.B. some principals may be
required to stay later second week tbc.
 Week 1 will be at Christ’s College, Larch Avenue, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1JY. (Fantastic performing arts facilities
conveniently situated between Woking and Guildford and near to A3) Week 2 will be at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre (from
Monday for production days).
 In addition to the rehearsals there will be performances at the theatre on Friday 26th August at 7.15pm, Saturday 27th August
at 2.15pm and 7.15pm (also dress rehearsal Thursday 25th August 7.15pm)
 The course will start at 9.00am every morning and finishes promptly at 4pm (until Week 2 when they may be asked to stay later).
Arrangements must be made for the above named to be collected at the stated time of finish of any given session. The Biz will not
accept responsibility for any child who leaves any rehearsal premises without seeking permission from an appropriate teacher. If
your child is making his or her own way home or leaving the premises at Lunchtime, you must sign permission slips. These will
be provided upon acceptance and are available for candidates over the age of 12
 Parents will be given an information pack upon receipt of this application form detailing venue and course information
 You must provide a full packed lunch for your child each day and snacks and drinks etc.
 The full fee is due in full before the start of the course and cannot be waived in respect to any absence. No refunds will be given.
 The Biz has the right to use both video and photographic coverage of all its students both in performance and rehearsals. The Biz
has the right to publish this material in any means it feels necessary including (but not exclusive to) any printed and digital
material and on the Biz website (www.thebizgroup.co.uk). The copyright of this material will be owned by The Biz and must not
be used without written permission.
 The Biz cannot accept liability for any items lost or stolen from any venue used for rehearsal or performance.
 The Biz reserves the right to refuse admission to rehearsals and/or public performances to anyone who is disruptive or rude to any
member of staff*, whilst also reserving the right to make alterations to venues, the teaching faculty, rehearsals or castings of any
show being produced.
 Personal details given on this form will be held on a database for communications
DECLARATION
I AM THE PARENT/ GUARDIAN OF …………………………………………………… I UNDERSTAND THE TERMS AND
CONDITIONS ABOVE AND AGREE FOR MY CHILD TO ATTEND THE BIZ SUMMER SCHOOL AND PRODUCTION.
Signed ……………………………………………………. Date …………………………………………..
Signature of parent / guardian
Parents/Guardians - I may be able to help with: backstage crew  Stage Lighting and Sound Design  Theatre usher
Wardrobe 
chaperone for show performance (NOW MUST BE LICENSED) 
Please attach a cheque for £ 95 deposit, payable to Biz Productions, with this application
- Balance £230 to be paid by 1st July 2016 (Biz Discount for current pupils only)
(Payment can also be made online please email for details)
