Hethersett Academy’s Sold Out Show: Dazzling Divine Musical Theatre Production, Sister Act

On the evenings of Wednesday 22nd, Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th March, students from Years 7 to 11 at Hethersett Academy took part in an outstanding production of Sister Act The Musical. The three performances took place at Helen Pye Theatre situated at Hethersett Academy, and sold out of tickets for every show, resulting in the students wowing audiences of over 200 people each night. 

The students were given a taste of what it's like to perform in a professional production, from the initial audition process, through to rehearsals and the final performances. Those that weren’t in the production cast were able to be involved in all aspects that take place behind the scenes including building the sets and scenery, managing the stage, and assisting with costumes and hair and make-up. The production has been an exceptional group effort, including teacher, Miss Leggoe and Year 9 Textiles students contributing to the production by creating all 60 nuns' habits. 

Sister Act tells the story of two unlikely groups of people who come together in the most unusual way. Deloris Van Cartier is a nightclub singer in 1970s Philadelphia, desperate for her big break. When she witnesses a gangster crime, Deloris takes refuge in a church, where she and the nuns find a mutual calling in creating music.  

The students involved were given opportunities to be inspired to pursue their interest and talents in performing arts, both now and in their future careers. In January, the students were treated to a trip to Norwich Theatre Royal to watch Sister Act The Musical starring West End performer, Lizzie Bea as Sister Mary Robert. The following day, Lizzie attended Hethersett Academy where the students were able to ask her questions about her education and spectacular career, as well as gain tips and tricks in preparation for their performance. 

Award-winning alumni theatre producer, Richard Jordan who has developing more than 260 incredible productions worldwide including Roadkill, Othello: The Remix, and Dickens’ Women, also visited the students. Richard spoke about his background, education and impressive subsequent career, and offered advice on pursuing a career in the arts. The production cast were then given the opportunity to perform songs and scenes from their performance to receive Richard’s feedback.

Principal of Hethersett Academy, Jane Diver said: 

“Wow! Sister Act was an absolute triumph. It was a delight to watch Hethersett Academy children play out the hilarious story of Deloris with such professionalism, tenacity and talent. I am very proud of what every person involved with this exemplary performance has achieved. The sense of enjoyment was apparent throughout and meant this funny, uplifting and heartfelt performance brought the house down in the Helen Pye Theatre.”

Assistant Principal Ethos & Enrichment, and Co-Director of the performance, Tom Hilton said:

“It has been a year full of nerves, laughter, singing and dancing (coupled with a healthy dose of grit and determination) and we are so proud and excited to share our show. At Hethersett Academy we promote kindness, hard work, taking pride and embracing opportunity. There is no richer example of these four core values at work than in a school production! 

 

We are so impressed with the incredible commitment and enthusiasm shown by so many - from our Year 11 ‘old-timers’ to brand new Year 7 performers. I would like to say thank you to our students - thank you for your time, your smiles, your voices, your thoughts. We do this for you.” 

Head of Drama and Co-Director of the performance, Lauren Knights said:

“We’re really proud of our cast and crew, they’ve worked incredibly hard for the last year. We have a tech team that have been controlling all the lighting and sound, front of house ensuring a quality show for our audiences, students that have made costumes, incredible musicians, and our amazing cast - all of whom have collaborated to bring this all together in what we think is a really fantastic show and something that we’re really proud of. I’m certainly very proud of them and the hard work that they’ve put in to make such a brilliant show. I would also like to thank all the staff that have helped and supported to get this show where it is. Bring on the next one!”