Rossall School give rousing rendition of the West End classic Les Misérables
Posted on 24th Mar 2017 in School News, Drama
Many tried, and failed, to hold back tears as the curtain fell on Rossall School’s production of Les Misérables. The final sold-out performance ended in a standing ovation for the impressive 38-strong cast of students aged 12 to 18.
Following a ‘good luck’ video message from their West End equivalents, the Rossall cast embarked on their challenge with high spirits, and once on stage any sign of nerves that may have been present backstage disappeared.
Lead cast member and previous head boy at Hodgson Academy, Matthew Peill, age 17, shone as Jean Valjean in a performance worthy of the West End. Matthew, alongside rehearsing for one of the most challenging roles in musical theatre, is studying for his A levels, and appeared relaxed and confident on stage, showing no signs of any pressure. His vocal performance of the iconic Les Misérables songs, including 'Bring Him Home', had the audience captivated.
Head of Hodgson, Mr Derek Yarwood commented: “Congratulations to the staff and students at Rossall for the fantastic Les Misérables production, my favourite musical! It was a truly wonderful and emotional performance by talented students."
Kirsty Swarbrick, age 17, captured the beauty and emotion in Fantine’s ‘I Dreamed a Dream’. Despite knowing the fate of Fantine, one couldn't help but be caught up in Kirsty's performance and wish her a happiness that unfortunately would never be.
As the student revolutionaries took to the barricades, Felix Mistry, age 13 and one of the youngest actors to take to the stage, showed incredible promise as Gavroche.
Les Misérables is considered one of the most difficult musicals to perform and produce, though the Rossall students and staff took this all in their stride.
Talk still continues about the production; Head of Rossall Ms Elaine Purves stated: “I am still basking in the glow created by the most superb production of Les Misérables; it was, without a doubt, one of the very best school productions I have ever seen.
“At many points throughout the performances, the students were indistinguishable from West End professionals. What an amazing experience they must have had working to such a high level and creating two evenings of entertainment that will be talked about for many years to come.”
Rossall School’s production of Les Misérables is sure to go down in School history as an awe-inspiring achievement.