The students staged Disney favourite Frozen Jr as our Christmas production this year, holding performances for friends, family and members of the public across two evenings, with more than 300 people attending.

“The show went so well – we genuinely could not be happier with how it turned out,” said the director, Andrea Miller, who is Music Lead at the school.

“We had a bigger turn out this year than we have in past years, with over 150 guests each night. We also showed some of the local primary schools and our entire Year 7 cohort.

“The feedback from everyone has been amazing. We have heard that it ‘looked professional’, ‘as good as anything else people have seen locally’, ‘amazing talent’, ‘a wonderful evening’ and so much more. Overall the general consensus is that this is the best show we have ever done.”

Smithdon’s stars of the stage included Ellie Proctor as Anna, and Martha Smith as Elsa (both in Year 9); Ethan Guymer, in Year 10, who played Kristoff; Bella Gee (Year 9) who took the role of Hans; and Darcie Askew (also Year 9) who was Sven.

Besides the cast, students from all year groups at the school were involved in every aspect of the production from sound and lighting, through to costume, props, set design, front-of-house and refreshments.

“The students had a blast,” continued Miss Miller. “They love being all together getting hair and makeup done, laughing and telling stories of the experience, and they are so supportive of each other backstage, making sure all of our students get onto stage with full costumes at the right time. They find it one of the most rewarding experiences that they have while they are here at Smithdon.

“In terms of the performance, one of my favourite parts is the first song in the show, ‘Let the Sun Shine On’, where the cast walk through the audience until all of them are on stage in perfect synchronicity. And, of course, you can never forget ‘Let It Go’, which was sung beautifully.”

Deputy Headteacher Sarah Robinson was equally impressed with the show: “The standout moment was the reprise of the song ‘For the First Time in Forever’, where Elsa and Anna sing a stunning duet and then Elsa freezes Anna’s heart.

“The moment took everyone by surprise. Well done to Miss Miller, Mrs Proctor and Miss Brown for their fantastic choreography and presentation ideas.”

There was further reason why the production was particularly poignant for the students and staff at our school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“We thought it really important to draw attention to the fact that the show this year was dedicated to a student whom we lost last year, and that everything we did was in memory of her,” explained Miss Miller.

“I was so impressed with the talent our students have displayed, with the roles being perfect for so many students, from comic characters to emotionally gripping performances,” added Headteacher Amanda Gibbins. 

“It is great to be able to give our students the opportunity to show off their skills to their parents, family and friends.”