STUDENTS from Cockshut Hill School treated local primary school children to a special performance of its production, Bugsy Malone.
Almost 300 children from nearby Oasis Blakenhale, Lea Forest Primary Academy and Yardley Primary School were transported from the school hall to 1920s New York during a thrilling two hour technical performance.
At the ‘Speak Easy’, cast members from years 7 to 10 donned suits, fedoras and flapper frocks to dance and sing their way through the musical’s most memorable hits – with cast members Bugsy, Tallulah and, of course Fat Sam, stealing the show.
Behind the scenes, the technical crew worked equally hard to create imaginative props, costumes and scenery, as well as professional music, lighting and effects, to make the whole experience spectacular.
This has been an exciting period for Cockshut Hill’s thriving Performing Arts Department, with a new Head of Faculty and Music Specialist recently joining an already excellent team, and the performance was the result of dedicated work by staff members from across the department, plus many other supporting colleagues.
All Cockshut Hill learners are encouraged and supported to get involved in the school’s many opportunities for performance art, to learn new skills, develop their confidence and work together in teams.
Jason Bridges, principal, Cockshut Hill School, said: “Wow, what a magnificent production! With dazzling costumes, spell-binding effects and first rate performances from learners of all ages, this was school musical theatre at its best.
“The cast was extremely excited to perform for the primary pupils and certainly managed to delight this young audience.
“Not only did the performance give the younger children a fun afternoon at the end of term, we hope it will also help those who will potentially join Cockshut Hill in September to feel more confident and excited about what lies ahead.
“Over many weeks of hard work, all learners – whether on stage or behind the scenes – have shown exemplary attitudes and have been a credit to both the school, and their parents and carers. The talent on show is a source of great pride for everyone at Cockshut Hill.”
