Sounds of Broadway echo round Hunstanton school

Hunstanton enjoyed a taste of Broadway, when the young talents from Smithdon High School staged their annual Easter concert at the Town Hall recently.

Smithdon Salutes Broadway saw soloists and choirs from the school perform a range of well-known pieces from popular musicals, while there was also an appearance by school band The Unknown at the event just before the end of term.

“Our Year 8 band, the Unknown, is always a highlight, as they amp up the energy,” said Andrea Barnes, who is Head of Music at Smithdon and directed the show.

“Our singers were also a true showcase of how much hard work they are doing, with absolutely beautiful solos from Hamilton, Les Miserables, and Oliver, among others.”

Around 30 students from Years 7 to 11 were involved in the production, both on stage and behind the scenes.

“The performers just like any opportunity to get on stage and perform to an audience,” continued Mrs Barnes.

“We also try to make our concerts really student-run, with students running and helping with lighting design, sound, stage managing, and as runners. 

“This sense of ownership over the concert gives them a lot of pride in what it is they have done. They also really like being able to support each other in their artistic endeavours.”

The Easter concert has become a regular fixture in the Smithdon calendar, and, for the last few years, has taken the music of stage and screen as its theme.

This year, staff supporting the production included peripatetic teachers Dan Ashby and Becky Harrington, as well as Smithdon’s Deputy Head, Sarah Robinson, Head of Design Technology Alix Birks, Head of Year 7 Alysha Moat, and Drama Teacher Kayleigh Brown.

“The concert went brilliantly,” added Mrs Barnes. “The students are growing and growing in their talents, and it is lovely to showcase it. The feedback received was really positive from everyone. Many people commented on how much improved our musicians are becoming, especially our singers.
“Events like this are really important to our student community, but also to the greater Hunstanton community.

“It is really important for the students to be able to have opportunities, no matter what their skillset is, to showcase what it is they are learning in lessons and clubs.

“It helps to build their confidence as they perform on stage. And it shows our wider community how truly amazing and talented our students are.”

Smithdon, a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, holds regular musical events throughout the year, with the school’s Summer Concert due to take place in Hunstanton Town Hall in July.

“The students’ performances are going from strength-to-strength,” said Headteacher Amanda Gibbins. “It is so heartwarming watching their progress from each concert to the next – both in confidence and quality. I am so proud of their dedication, and of the work Andrea does to support them."