Beauty and The Beast (Junior)

It is two years since I saw a performance by pupils from Kirkham Grammar Junior School and I found the standard was just as outstanding, if not more so. I was so impressed by the whole evening. The capacity audience were treated to a splendid performance of this popular musical which although it was the Junior version, differed only slightly from the Adult . It appeared that most of the Junior School were taking part and the sheer logistics of using the vast number of pupils must have been daunting. The production team, however, have succeeded in using all available talent to complete an evening to remember. Singing and diction were excellent and at times I completely forgot that this talented group were so young. Years J1 to J4 provided an additional chorus to supplement the main action. Their enthusiasm, enjoyment and commitment was obvious to the appreciative audience. There were many fine performances on stage, notably, Darcy Clough as Belle, Joseph Ingham as Cogsworth, Mathew Sloane as Maurice and Esther Livermore as Mrs Potts. Her rendition of “Beauty and the Beast” was outstanding. It is not an easy skill to perform to a backing track as it requires intense concentration but all succeeded completely. One of the main points I noticed was the fact that there appeared to be no weak link in the cast, something that very rarely happens. An excellent set, beautiful costumes, appropriate to the character and very professional sound and lighting all helped to make this an exceptional performance. All the production team under the overall direction of Helen Shuttleworth, should be very proud of their obvious hard work but the main accolades must go to the accomplished pupils of the Junior School.  It augurs well for the progression of the drama and music over the next few years. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our evening with you and we look forward to our next visit. Thank you for you warm welcome and hospitality.

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