Students take to the stage for a magic performance

Students from Banbury's Stagecoach Theatre Arts group performed in a spectacular extravaganza themed around magic in Leamington Spa.

Members of four Stagecoach groups took part in two separate shows on Sunday June 26, with Banbury and Warwick students performing at the Royal Spa Centre at 1pm, followed by Leamington and Kenilworth schools at 7.30pm.

For the finale, the whole cast took part in a song and dance routine entitled I’ll Put a Spell on You.

Proceeds from the event will go to three local charities –Banbury Young Homeless Project (BYHP), Riding for the Disabled (RDA) and The Performing Arts Children’s Charity.

Principal of Banbury Theatre Arts School, Melissa Allen, said: “The theme was magic, and the performances were just that – pure magic. The terrific work students from all stages put into rehearsals for dance, drama and singing over the past few weeks triumphed.

“I was so impressed by each and every student. It’s such an achievement and especially in our 10th anniversary year. I’m one very proud principal.”

Melissa and Jaqui Dance, principal of the Kenilworth, Warwick and Leamington Spa schools, were assisted by a willing team of parent volunteer chaperones, responsible for helping with costume changes, make-up, getting the students on stage on cue and more.

Melissa said: “I’m so very grateful to everyone who helped. It just wouldn’t be possible to present two shows, each with 250 performers, on the same day without this vital support.”

The next task for Melissa’s performers is to learn and perform a show in just one week, to be performed at their base, Banbury’s Blessed George Napier School on July 29.