Beauty and the Beast Dazzles at Wayland Academy

Wayland Academy has entertained Watton as the school production of Beauty and the Beast was performed to an excitable crowd at the end of last week. The much-anticipated production gave pupils a chance to show off their singing, dancing and acting skills and gave a great opportunity to get involved in something different.

The ambitious musical, based on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, contained classic songs such as “Be Our Guest” and thrilled the audience with dancing and choreography alongside the songs.

Glen Allott, Principal at Wayland Academy said:

 

“It makes me incredibly proud to see pupils step out of their comfort zones, to be brave and embrace this opportunity. Events such as these allow us to see a totally different side to the pupils. Personally, I would like to thank Miss Mayes-Smith and Mr Shortland, without them the show would not have gone on!“

The show was filled with musical numbers that were performed by a wonderful cast that gave it their all throughout the show. Accompanied by professional lighting and sound it was amazing to see the pupils enjoying this opportunity. For many, it would have been the first time they had been involved in a performance of this magnitude and it was a great experience for them. This was the first school production at Wayland Academy for some time, with hopes to deliver more shows in the future.

Holly Mayes-Smith, Teacher of Performing Arts and Music at Wayland Academy said:

 

“We have such talented students here at Wayland Academy who are so committed to the performing and creative arts. Through late night rehearsals, auditions, costume fittings, learning their lines and picking up choreography. Our students have flourished in all strands, creating an amazing performance. I am immensely proud of every single student involved, their hard work and determination is admirable and I cannot wait to start the next show with them all!“

With some truly stand-out performances from the lead roles and a very enthusiastic and supportive cast, it was a joy to watch the young people of Wayland Academy enjoy themselves on stage and deliver a great show for their audience.

Students across Inspiration Trust schools have the opportunity to take part in performances, musicals and concerts, to give them experience and the ability to try new things as part of their education. Other recent productions from across the trust include “Annie” by Hewett Academy, Jane Austen College and Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, as well as “The Little Mermaid” by The Thetford Academy.