A NEW staging of hit musical ‘Grease’ by The Royal Senior School, was performed before three sell-out audiences.

Auditions were held in April and rehearsals started in earnest in May, and a 54-strong cast enacted the school’s re-telling of the classic story.

Head of drama Ed Taylor-Gooby, said: “It was such a pleasure to see pupils of all ages on stage, the cast of 54 has both boys and girls from years seven to 11. 

“Some of the performers had never been in a musical before, but they lit up the stage alongside pupils who will probably pursue careers in professional performance.

“We were so grateful to all those who got involved, from the performers to the back stage and behind the scenes contributors.

“Everyone came together to create something magical – making every late night rehearsal worth it.

“One of the most rewarding factors of producing such a large show is the collaboration with my colleagues in the arts departments.

“We are in a fantastic time for the Arts at The Royal School

“On top of his commitments in the music department I’d like to thank Stewart Conley-Harper for all of his work on the musical direction of Grease, Robin Ewbank for his artistic input and creation of ‘Greased Lightning,’ Hayley Kelly who took charge of choreography and Sally Waghorn who joined as production manager.

“Their time, commitment and patience were much appreciated.”

School principal Anne Lynch, said: “It was amazing – great singing, great dancing, great fun.

“All 54 pupils had put tremendous effort into this production for months and months, with inspired direction from Mr Taylor- Gooby, and unstinting support from Mr Conley-Harper, Mrs Waghorn and Mrs Kelly.

“In fact, it was a huge team effort with so much hard work from the maintenance department, The Royal School Association and all those who supported back stage and in the box office – a true partnership between so many different elements of the school,” Mrs Lynch added.