Youngsters of West Cumbria took to the stage for the first time in over two years in a musical extravaganza.
More than 120 young performers, members of Razzamataz Theatre Schools, were at Workington’s Carnegie Theatre earlier this month.
With live performances paused during the pandemic, many children have missed out.
Matty Aitchison Rayson, principal of Razzamataz West Cumbria, said: “For many young people who are enthusiastic about performing arts, being kept away from their passion was incredibly difficult. So, the title of this year’s gala show was very apt – When you Believe, which was a celebration of having the courage to never give up on your dreams.”
Students performed a variety show to demonstrate the different elements that they learn each week at Razzamataz.
A tradition of Razzamataz is to create mini musicals, giving students the chance to take part in some of their most loved theatre shows. This year, the students got to perform parts of The Wizard of Oz, Lilo & Stitch, Tarzan, Bugsy Malone Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Grease and Rock of Ages.
There were also songs and dances inspired by the likes of One Direction, Beyonce and Elton John.
Some of the key moments in the show included solo performances by students who had been awarded scholarships in association with The Stage newspaper. Lacie Morgan, Stage Scholarship Winner 2021, Brooke Pavitt, Stage Scholarship Runner Up 2021, Arien Birks, Stage Scholarship Runner Up 2021 and Performer of the Year 2019 Poppy Savage all were given the privilege of performing a solo piece.
Matty added: “Each and every student impressed us with their dedication, commitment and teamwork. It takes a lot of courage to go on stage so I’m incredible proud of each and every one of them.”
This first major showcase performance has given many of the students a real taste for being on the stage and Razzamataz West Cumbria has arranged for other opportunities, including performing at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London’s West End in December.
