This year’s end of term production at Brampton Abbotts School, in Ross-on-Wye, has been slightly different to previous years; it was entirely researched and scripted by the children themselves.

‘Disney Dazzle’ is a tribute to the life and works of the late great Walt Disney who died 50 years ago this year. The children performed their own versions of scenes from family favourites, such as Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book and Toy Story.

The whole of Key Stage 2 have been learning songs from Disney movies with the school’s inspirational musical director Alan Durman, and a lucky group of Year 5s and 6s even got the chance go and perform some of the songs at the Courtyard in Hereford in June.

Years 5 and 6 spent hours researching Walt Disney’s life and works to provide the narration, and the Drama Club selected and scripted their favourite scenes from  Disney films. The experience has taught them a great deal about script writing and staging, as they even had to write the stage directions.

The children also became involved in making some tricky costumes, including a giant wardrobe and a cup for Beauty and the Beast.

The play’s director, Mrs Herriott remarked: “What an amazing job they have done; they have reminded us of the importance of the creative arts in an age where its place in education is sadly diminishing. Putting on a play teaches children the relevance of performance and presentation skills, teamwork and togetherness, responsibility and determination. It’s hard work but it is great fun and an uplifting way to end the school year.”

The school would like to thank Iris Price for helping them source some of the costumes, John Kyrle High School for the loan of their sound equipment and Mr Sockett for lending them his giant teapot.