Young Stars from Stourbridge Conquer the West End
A talented group of 22 students from Stagecoach Stourbridge realised their theatrical dreams on Sunday, 16th November, performing at the illustrious Shaftesbury Theatre in London's West End. The young performers, aged between 11 and 16, delivered a spectacular show after a demanding audition process and only eight intensive rehearsals.
A Magical Medley on a Prestigious Stage
The troupe took to the stage with a dynamic medley of songs by the band Madness, taken from the musical 'Our House'. The piece was masterfully put together by Principal Hayley Thompson and teacher Kerrie Jones. Before the main event, the students immersed themselves in a full professional experience, participating in a technical rehearsal, a full dress rehearsal, and a professional headshot session.
Their performance was described as a non-stop, all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza that captivated the jam-packed audience. The students' infectious energy, strong characterisation, and pure passion for the arts were overwhelmingly evident, showcasing their incredible dedication.
From Local Classes to London's Limelight
The success at The Shaftesbury Theatre is a testament to the vision of Principal Hayley and her husband, Andy Southall, who took over the Stagecoach franchise just three years ago. In that short time, they have grown the school from 60 to over 200 students, providing remarkable opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
These opportunities have included performing in Disneyland Paris, transforming a local Wordsley school hall into a jazz club, and holding a full-scale summer festival. Principal Hayley expressed her immense pride, stating, "The standard of the piece that the children delivered... was more incredible than I could have ever imagined. The children's pure love and dedication to the arts was overwhelming to see."
A Creative Home for Every Child
Stagecoach Stourbridge prides itself on being an inclusive hub for young people with a passion for the arts. Hayley Thompson emphasises that the school caters to a wide range of aspirations. Some children attend to build confidence and make friends, while others are training for a future career in musical theatre, whether performing or teaching.
As part of a global network, Stagecoach teaches Creative Courage for Life, with many alumni progressing to professional roles in film and local theatre. With the January term approaching, Stagecoach Stourbridge is now accepting applications and offering two-week trials for new starters, providing a chance for more children to discover their potential.
