Pyrland School students thrilled audiences with their performance of the hit musical Grease. Staged over three nights, with an extra show for primary schools, this was the first time since Covid that a production of this scale has been put on at the school and the first since it was renamed (previously The Taunton Academy). The local community snapped up the tickets for a full house every night, with standing ovations and dancing in the aisles.

Starring in the role of Danny Zuko was Sam Freeman in Year 11, a talented musician completing his BTEC in Music Practice this year. Alongside Sam were two gifted singers who shined in the shared role of Sandy –  the duo of Lily-Diana Casuncad (Year 9) and Casey-Mai Johnson (Year 7.)  Lucy Todd in Year 10 took on the iconic dance role of Cha-Cha DiGregorio. Lucy is currently preparing to compete in a National Street Dance competition, having previously been part of a winning national team.

Head of Performing Arts George Gannon led a team of committed staff, who worked alongside the students to rehearse and prepare the performance over several months. Students sang, danced, worked backstage, helped with lighting and audio and even ran the refreshment stand.

He said: “The students are already clamouring for another production. We want to ride the wave of this great success, so I think there’s every chance there’ll be another show next year. But we’ll have to keep you guessing as to which one we choose!”

Head Teacher Lisa Webber said: “I was moved and misty eyed to see our students embrace this opportunity and to do us proud. I had some amazing feedback from parents about our star students, they were also impressed with the meticulously authentic sets.

“This is just one of many enrichment activities taking place at the school this year. Students need a broad range of opportunities, as well as excellent teaching and results. Pyrland School serves a community which deserves the same chances as the most successful schools in the county. That’s why we’re committing to providing residential trips, award winning sports, Royal Marines Cadets and Duke of Edinburgh schemes, nature walks, arts, STEM and of course more musicals.”