THE CAST and crew of a school’s first stage show since the pandemic began have been praised for an ‘amazing’ production.
Actors, dancers and singers took to the stage at The Avon Valley School and Performing Arts College for their production of Matilda.
Each of the show’s five nights were sold out, with the seats packed with proud family, friends, teachers and member of the community.
Pupils from Bilton Junior School and Riverside Academy were also invited to a special performance, and the school’s Year 7 students were also treated to an exclusive show to inspire future performers.
Almost a year after auditioning for the show, and after many months of rehearsals, the cast – which featured almost 100 students from Year 7 to Year 11 – were overwhelmed with positive comments from the audience.
One comment left on the school’s Facebook page said: “Absolutely blown away by the professionalism of the cast and production. So, so good! Well done to everyone involved.”
Another added: “Just wanted to say how amazing tonight’s performance was! I honestly felt like I was watching a West End show. The children were so incredibly talented.”
Four students took turns performing the show’s title role – Year 7 student Isla Iles, Year 8 students Freya Lee and Daisy Adamson, and Year 10’s Emily Adamson.
Performing arts faculty leader Elisa Wheatley said: “A huge amount of hard work and effort from the students, and my team, went into the show and we were really pleased with the results. All the students involved in the production did a great job and they should all be very proud.”
Headteacher Alison Davies added: “After two years where it has not been possible to run a show, this was a great comeback and the students were a credit to the school.
“I was delighted to see that every night sold out and that the friends and family members of the cast could join us to see the students on stage. It was wonderful to hear how impressed the audience were as they left the performance.
“Well done to our performing arts team and to all the students involved – you were all fantastic.”
