From the 30th January to the 1st February New York City has arrived in Urmston as Guys and Dolls hits the stage at Urmston Grammar!

The captivating essence of New York was effectively brought to life thanks to the hard work of the staff and students of Urmston Grammar School theatrical department. Months of hard work has gone into creating this production with rehearsals commencing right back in May of last year. The show consists of 50 students who delve into character through acting, song and dance.  Students involved have given up many a lunchtime and hours afterschool even extending to full day weekend rehearsals to create something special for their loved ones to see. Staff have worked tirelessly with countless meetings and I’m sure several sleepless nights whilst bringing Guys and Dolls to life. 

On stage performance skills were not the only things learnt through this process.  Students who prefer to be out of the limelight, but crucial in the execution of the show, had the opportunity to join the Urmston Grammar Technical Team where music teacher Mr Harrison taught them the importance of working quickly and effectively to prepare the actors for each scene by working together to create seamless set and prop transitions. It is clear that great teamwork skills will have been developed by all students involved in this performance which I was fortunate enough to enjoy watching this evening. 

A fellow audience member described the evening as, “A celebration of the talented students of Urmston Grammar School and a testimony to the hard work of all the individuals involved and those who have supported the show.” It is clear that the performance this evening was a hit with students from all year groups ranging from brave Year 7s to those soon retiring from school performances in Y13.

I am throughly excited to see what show is selected for next year by the talented Theatre Staff at UGS who work tirelessly to make these shows what they are- a major success which is supported by students, parents, teachers, governors and the head teacher every year.