Students at Moreton Hall in Shropshire received a spectacular surprise this week when renowned actor Larry Lamb made an impromptu visit to their rehearsal for the senior school production of The Witches of Eastwick.
A Celebrity in the Rehearsal Room
The celebrated star, best known for playing Mick Shipman in Gavin and Stacey and Archie Mitchell in EastEnders, dropped in to watch the young cast perform musical numbers from the show. His visit came ahead of his ‘In Conversation With’ event hosted by the local independent bookshop, BOOKA.
Lamb didn't just observe; he connected personally with the students, sharing a touching story about his own life in musical theatre. "It’s really funny being around a musical getting made," he told the cast. "I met my girls’ mum when we were both in a musical together. I fully fell in love, and now I’ve got two daughters who love musical theatre."
A Department in the Spotlight
This special visit coincides with a moment of significant achievement for the school. The Drama department has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Drama Department Award at the Music and Drama Education Awards. Moreton Hall is the only school in Shropshire to receive this prestigious nomination, making the recognition particularly special.
Michael Jenkins, Head of Drama, described the atmosphere during Lamb's visit as "electric." He said, "It was a joy to watch the seasoned actor soak up the energy of the room and comment on how wonderful it was to see a space buzzing with such creativity and talent."
Jenkins added that during an impromptu performance of the comedic number 'I Love This Little Town', Lamb turned to him to express how impressed he was by the high standard of performance, a comment that filled the staff with immense pride.
Don't Miss The Witches of Eastwick
The school is now preparing to bring the magic to the public. Tickets are officially on sale for The Witches of Eastwick, which will be performed from Tuesday, December 2 - Thursday, December 4.
The performances will take place in the school's own professional venue, The Holroyd Community Theatre, located on-site in Weston Rhyn.
For those eager to witness the talent that impressed a TV star, tickets and further details can be found by visiting: www.moretonhall.org/the-witches-of-eastwick
