There was a memorable spectacle at Penrice Academy last week as the curtain rose on their highly anticipated 2024 school production of Oliver JR. 

With well-known songs like Consider Yourself, Food Glorious Food, and Oom-Pah-Pah, the audiences across three nights clapped hands and tapped toes throughout the shows. 

Performing to over 200 people on each night, students received rapturous applause each night in Penrice’s Assembly Hall. 

A special daytime performance was offered to visiting primary schools on Friday. 

Headteacher Tanya Coleman said: “From the acting to the singing, the props to the lighting and audio, I was blown away by the quality of the show.  

“All students involved have shown incredible levels of teamwork, respect and determination and they should be incredibly proud of themselves.” 

Ms Coleman thanked the staff production team of Mrs Ames, Mr Brodey, Ms Doorey, Mr Easterbrook, Mr Goodlad and Mr Jenyon, as well as the the set, costume and prop design team.  

Work began on Oliver JR with auditions in the summer term of 2023, since when actors and actresses have attended two rehearsal sessions per week. 

Previous productions have included adaptations of Matilda JR in 2023 and Mary Poppins JR in 2022.