Students follow yellow brick road to stage success

THEATRICAL pupils enjoyed the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd when they followed the yellow brick road to the stage.

Pupils at Derby Cathedral School, in Great Northern Road, put on a performance of the Wizard of Oz as the 1939 classic movie marks its 85th anniversary this year.

It was the first major performance staged by the school, which opened in 2018, and is part of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust.

Dorothy actress Chloe Hayhurst, 13, is no stranger to the stage after appearing in shows at the Brewhouse Arts Centre, in Burton, and Derby Theatre, as well as being a keen dancer.

The year nine pupil said: “I didn’t expect to get the part of Dorothy and it has been a bit tricky learning all of her lines. It’s really good to put on such a big performance to show off the talent that they have here in the school.”

Year 11 pupil Grace Young, 16, who plays the Cowardly Lion, said: “I was hoping to get the Lion and I think they had me in mind for it but it wasn’t definite. I do hope to pursue acting, but it’s a hobby at the minute.”

Year 11 pupil Harrison Quenby, 15, who had the role of the Scarecrow in search of a brain, found it was more the stage direction that challenged him, rather than learning the lines.

He said: “I’m all right on the stage as I don’t really get public embarrassment. I’m thinking of taking up drama as more of a hobby, but I think it’s a good skill to have. It is important for public speaking and presenting which is a big thing to be able to do. Even if I don’t go into acting, it comes in handy.”

Year nine pupil Ennis McMahon, 14, who played the Tin Man in need of a heart, said: “I auditioned for the Tin Man as I feel I can represent that character the best. He resonates for me, so I went for the role and got it.

“I definitely want to go into the film industry as that’s my passion and I know a lot about it.”

Director and drama teacher Alex Wrampling said: “The show is a great ensemble piece which was exactly what we wanted and it offers plenty of opportunities for the students to play different characters. It has been a pleasure to work with the pupils and I’m really proud of them. I hope that their families, staff and friends are proud too and can see all the hard work these young people have put into it.”