Pupils in running to ‘Shine’ on TV
APRIMARY school could see their classic Christmas play televised to the nation after being shortlisted in a national competition.
St Peter’s in Rochdale has made the final of Virgin Media’s Christmas Stars competition and the winner will see their play professionally filmed in the school hall and televised to four million homes.
They will also work with TV presenter Stephen Mulhern who will narrate the winning school’s cast in the one-off performance.
St Peter’s entered the classic nativity play “I’m Gonna Shine” which follows the story of Gloria, the brightest star of all, on a magical journey to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus.
In its competition application, school bosses said they deserved to win because: “At St Peter’s, Christmas is a time of sparkles, laughter and a whole lot of singing. Our Christmas plays are fabulously legendary; everyone wants to be part of the action.
“Our top of the range stage, lighting and curtains help us create an exciting and dramatic performance – good enough to rival any West End production.
“Due to our overexcited staff, costumes can range from donkeys in tutus to one-eyed green aliens, and usually include lots of fun face painting.
“The Christmas show is a special time at St Peter’s and allows us to show off our diverse community with parents and families coming together to celebrate and enjoy this happy time of year.”
St Peter’s could also win £5,000 and other prizes, including a masterclass from the cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock the Musical, tickets to see the show and 20 ukuleles.
The runner up school will win £1,000 and 15 ukuleles, while 22 regional finalists will win £100 and two ukuleles each.
David Bouchier, chief digital entertainment officer at Virgin Media, said: “A huge congratulations to Rochdale’s St Peter’s Church of England Primary School for being named as a finalist in our magical Christmas
Stars competition. Its production has the perfect ingredients for a feelgood festive play which could be enjoyed by millions of Virgin TV customers this Christmas.
“Stay tuned to find out who will be our winner – good luck everyone at St Peter’s!”