School musical hits all the right notes

Music lovers in Hunstanton flocked to see a festive family favourite when Smithdon High School students staged a production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

More than 40 pupils across the school were involved in all aspects of the show, which was organised by Head of Music Andrea Barnes.

“The show went brilliantly,” she said. “From a staff perspective, it was the smoothest production we have done. The students were so responsible and really took charge, making it a breeze for us.

“The community really enjoyed it, and we received so much positive feedback on the quality of the performance.”

Featuring popular classics such as ‘Truly Scrumptious’ and, of course, ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, the story of the magical, flying car was adapted for screen by author Roald Dahl and director Ken Hughes in 1968.

The Smithdon cast included Ellie Proctor from Year 10 as Truly Scrumptious; Alfie Rix in Year 8 and Lyra Cummings in Year 9 as Jeremy and Jemima Potts; Ethan Guymer in Year 11 as Caractacus Potts; Harry Murrell in Year 8 as Grandad; and Darcie Askew and Geo Anness, both in Year 10, as The Baron and Baroness.

“It was universally agreed that the scenes involving our Baron and Baroness were incredibly funny and well acted,” continued Mrs Barnes. 

“One of the stand-out moments, of course, is when Chitty is revealed in her full glory with wings and all – visually, it is so satisfying to watch, and it acts as the climax of the show as they soar through the figurative air.

“The students loved the process over all. Students also loved getting involved with the lighting and sound design for the show, as we gave them free rein to try and experiment with different lighting options.

“Students love the sense of community that they develop through these shows – many of them make their best friends and create their own little show family.”

Three packed performances took place at the school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, with some audience members coming back for more.

“In our primary and Year 7 performance, we performed the show to approximately 200 young people,” explained Mrs Barnes. “In our evening performances, over the two nights, we welcomed over 300 members of the public, making it the most successful show we have had to date.

“All of the feedback we received from the audience was so positive – everyone was amazed at the talent of our students and how well they had done in the show. Many people even returned to see it a second time, as they enjoyed it so much the first night.

“People felt that the show had really done Smithdon proud, and showcased the best of what we have to offer.

“Events like this are wonderful, as they allow us to access such a wide range of people in our community, from the young, primary students who come in to watch, to members of the community from all walks of life. They showcase all of the positive things that are happening here.”

Headteacher Amanda Gibbins, who had seen the show five times at the Palladium Theatre in London’s West End, added: “I am so proud of the Performing Arts staff team, who had the vision to make such a big production in a school environment, and I was blown away by how well the students performed the energetic dance moves, the comedy aspects, and portrayed the story to huge effect – so many students came out of their comfort zones and were amazing.”