Students dazzle with stunning Beauty and the Beast Jnr Production

With initial rehearsals taking place in September, the final performances were the culmination of five months hard work; 67 students from Year 7 to Year 11 gave their all to learn lines and perfect dance routines.

The result was a highly polished and professional production that transported audience members to the fictional world of Belle, Beast and the magical talking characters that defined the Disney classic. In fact, the standard was so high that, during one show, two young attendees screamed “no!” when Gaston threatened to kill Beast; this was a testament to the quality of performance.

It wasn’t all about the students starring on the stage, though, the backstage team – comprising of 10 volunteers – also shone. Working with Mrs Lockton each week, students created props and constructed a spectacular set that would have rivalled the Curve Theatre. They also worked tirelessly to ensure the lighting and sound worked in tandem to augment the viewing experience.

The show was arranged as such that performers effortlessly glided from the main stage to the middle of the main hall floor, with the audience stationed on either side; this resulted in a highly immersive and engaging experience.

Across three nights, nearly 500 spectators came to watch the students in action; local primary school – Hall Orchard – even to come and watch and were thoroughly impressed.

"I was blown away by it,” said Assistant Head, Mr Burditt, “Amazing performances and staging, I think it's your best yet."

Meanwhile Executive Principal Laura Sanchez, was equally as wowed.

"Thank you for Beauty and the Beast,” she said.

“It was amazing!  I thought the sets, costumes, dance, song and acting were all superb...I haven't enjoyed anything so much for ages."

Merit and recognition should also go to the dedicated staff members, who all went above and beyond to support the students and ensure the performance ran smoothly.

“I feel humbled and honoured to be working alongside such amazing staff and students,” explained Mrs Quail, who was among the nine individuals that worked on the show.

“They have worked tirelessly as a team and their efforts have been shown through outstanding performances night after night which showcased the amazing talent we have in our school.

“We are all so very proud of all involved.”

All in attendance were left utterly spellbound by the quality of performance and Team HP were rightly applauded for their sensational efforts.

Thank-you to to Mrs Quail, Mrs Hussey, Mr Smith, Mrs Lockton, Mr Morris, Mr Webb, Mr Greenall and Mr Davison and Mr Miller for all of their help in supporting the students over the last five months; your efforts truly epitomise just how fantastic TeamHP are!