We were thrilled to present our production of Oliver! Jnr this week, performed by the children in Year 5 and 6.
Banstead Prep School was honoured by the presence of special guests Councillor Jill Bray the Mayor of Reigate and Banstead, local headteachers from Reigate Grammar School, Caterham School, Box Hill School and Harris Academy Sutton, and several of our Local Governing Body.
Due to current coronavirus restrictions, the cast played to a half capacity audience who made up for their numbers with the noise generated by their applause and cheers of appreciation. Mrs Angela Dziedziela, Subject Leader for English and Drama, explained why this was such a special event: “It has been a challenging year for us all, but we were determined right from September to do a Year 5 & 6 Production and Oliver! Jnr was the perfect fit for these talented children.”
The children were amazing performers, full of character and confidence and the production was described by the Mayor as “Refreshing, enthusiastic and professional – a real treat!” Tamara, one of the Year 6 parents in the audience said it was “like returning to the West End, I loved it!”
Cory Lowde, Headteacher of Box Hill School also enjoyed the show: “It was a wonderful production with a talented cast of exceptional performers, vibrant joyful singing and high octane energy! What a delight to be back in live theatre. It was a real gift and I thank you for it, and for making me welcome.”
For Jon Chesworth, Banstead Prep’s Headteacher, it was particularly rewarding to see the children get the opportunity to share their hard work with an external audience. “This experience will go with them to their senior schools next academic year, not just a special and happy memory, but in the personal growth in confidence and all that they’ve gained from pulling together as a team, a great foundation for their future success.”
Take a look behind the scenes of Oliver Jr and find out what the children thought about their experience Behind the Scenes of Oliver Jr on YouTube
