July 16, 2024 12:55pm
A talented group of children have captivated audiences and earned a well-deserved standing ovation, following their colourful production of ‘Beauty and the Beast Jr’.
Pupils at Furzeham Primary and Nursery School delivered a spectacular performance of the show, held at Brixham College, which highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of the school community, bringing this ‘tale as old of time’ to life with exquisite costumes and unforgettable performances.
Months of rehearsals resulted in a magical evening where the stage was transformed into a realm of enchantment. The dedication and hard work of the pupils and staff at Furzeham Primary School was evident in every scene, capturing the hearts of everyone in attendance.
A special highlight of the evening was the return of previous pupils who had previously graced Furzeham's stage.
Jack Adams, who played the Prince in the 2016 rendition of "Beauty and the Beast," reminisced:
"Coming back yesterday was a heartfelt evening, filled with memories and nostalgia from our production eight years ago."
Lottie, a former pupil who once portrayed Mrs. Potts, who is currently studying Musical Theatre at the Liverpool Media Academy, returned to help stage the show.
Reflecting on her journey, Lottie shared:
“Playing Mrs. Potts jumpstarted my love for musical theatre. It inspired me to pursue this passion, and now I am studying Musical Theatre at LMA Liverpool. If it were not for that role, I would not be where I am today.”
As the curtain closed on this memorable production, it marked a significant milestone for the Year 6 children who played the main parts. For many of them, this performance also symbolised their transition from primary school to the next big chapter – starting secondary schools in September.
Millie, a Year 6 who played Lumière, expressed her newfound confidence, saying:
"My favourite bit has been connecting with the rest of the cast. When I am older, I really want to be an actor. I would be able to do the things I love for work. This has really built up my confidence and this is the biggest part I've had in a show."
Claire Thompson, Deputy Head at Furzeham Primary School, and Director of the production, extended her gratitude to the school community:
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us – from crafting props and altering costumes to Brixham College for allowing us to perform on their stage. This tradition, which started in 2012, continues to grow stronger each year."
“When I meet pupils form the past, who say ‘we will treasure the memories,’ this is what keeps us all going. Beauty and the Beast is about hope, friendship, and resilience, which mirrors everything we believe in at Furzeham Primary and Nursery School.
“I look forward to continuing to inspire and empower future generations of students through the arts.”
