SVAPA in London
The school's Specialist Visual & Performing Arts program is currently conducting a tour in London and Paris. They will be taking in a wide variety of experiences during their journey.
You can follow their adventures through the SVAPA Tour blog.
An excerpt from their first day in London:
We started the day off by visiting Westminster Abbey. As soon as we walked in we were amazed by its size and detail. We were shown tombs of famous kings, queens and esteemed members of society. Some included the Unknown Soldier, King Henry the III, Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots. This is also where The Duke and Dutchess of Cambridge were married.
After leaving the Abbey we walked down to Big Ben where many people took photos and learnt about the history of the tower. For instance, the the tower is not called Big Ben. The bell inside is and is named after the famous wrestler who helped carry the bell into place.
Leaving the Houses of Parliament we went through St James' Park, which was full of baby pink cherry blossoms and bright yellow daffodils which signal the early days of spring. At the other side of St. James' we reached The Mall which is where we followed the marching guards to Buckingham Palace.Buckingham Palace was an amazing piece of architecture and was full of intricate sculptures and carvings. Thousands of people gathered around to get a good view of the changing of the guards.
On our way to the bus to get to the galleries we had to be alert as the crowds were insane.
Upon arrival at the gallery we looked at the amazing artwork in the 'Painting Paradise' exhibition. This showcased the Victorian artwork with the theme based on gardens. Apart from paintings they also had sculptures of bejeweled flowers and vases. Finishing Painting Paradise,we headed of to the Royal Mews which showcased the carriages, horses and cars which the Royals use.Next was a short bus trip to Saint Pauls Cathedral. As soon as we entered everyone was stunned and breathless by the colourful mosaics on the roof and walls. This cathedral also had tombs of famous people. A few of us were able to go upstairs and see great views of the the city and inside of the Cathedral.
Next stop was the London Eye, a colossal Ferris wheel right next to the Thames River. Once we boarded the 'pods' we saw breathtaking panoramic views of the river, Big Ben and the rest of London.
We then returned back to the hostel to relax after the long day.Caitlyn and Nel
