Wolsingham pupils get “a little bit naughty” for school musical
YOUNG performers at a North East school are preparing to stage their own production of a beloved
Roald Dahl musical.
Matilda, as adapted for the stage by musician and comedian Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly, will
run for four nights at Wolsingham School, in County Durham.
Head of English Anna Oulton, who directs and is organising the show alongside Head of Music
Nerys Angel, said: “It’s been three years since we brought Wolsingham School Musical back to life.
“It was always one of the highlights of the year when I was a student here, so Mrs Angel and I were
determined to bring it back. There are 51 students in the cast and crew, and more than 100
teachers, staff, and parents involved.
“The kids have all worked amazingly hard, and it’s just great to see the arts and drama quite
literally taking centre stage.”
The show proved so popular among pupils at the Advance Learning Partnership school that
enough auditioned to fill two full casts, who will perform on alternate nights.
Imogen Seaton, a Year 8 actor and one of the performers playing the title role, said: “I’ve been
part of the Pauline Quirke Academy since I was eight or nine years old – and performed in Across the
Line in the London West End as part of the ensemble – but this is my first major role.
“It’s amazing. I get to sing, and dance, and act, and it’s just everything that I love.”
Megan Sheard, who also plays Matilda, added: “My dad was really helpful getting me ready for
the audition – he ran lines with me and he did all the other parts.”
The villainous Miss Trunchbull is traditionally portrayed by a male actor, and is played by Thomas
Stephenson and DJ Fairhurst in the Wolsingham production.
DJ said: “The experience has been amazing, and I hope it continues to be amazing when we
open.”
Refusing to break character, Thomas – as the child-hating Trunchbull – said: “Putting on this show
has been the worst experience of my life!
“I’ve had to spend months surrounded by these filthy little children, and as for the teachers at
Wolsingham School – well! They don’t use canes, they don’t have a Chokey, and they even seem to
encourage their pupils! The whole lot should be court-martialled.”
Letting the mask slip, he added: “Seriously though, Miss Oulton and Mrs Angel have done a
fantastic job pulling the show together. They’ve just been shining stars.”
The show will be staged between Tuesday, July 1 and Friday, July 4. Tickets are available by
contacting Wolsingham School on 01388 527302.
Photo Captions: The cast gather at dress rehearsal ahead of opening night
Megan Sheard, as Matilda, faces off against Thomas Stephenson’s child-hating Miss Trunchbull
Imogen Seaton as Matilda, Jaiden Mitchinson as Michael Wormwood, Taylor Reed as Rodolpho,
Anna Eastwood as Mrs Wormwood, and James Maasz O’Connell as Mr Wormwood
