Travel through time with youngsters’ musical

Musical youngsters at a Heckmondwike school took to the stage to perform a William Shakespeare classic with a futuristic twist.
Heckmondwike Grammar School pupils dress rehearsal of Return to the Forbidden Planet. (d614d505)Heckmondwike Grammar School pupils dress rehearsal of Return to the Forbidden Planet. (d614d505)
Heckmondwike Grammar School pupils dress rehearsal of Return to the Forbidden Planet. (d614d505)

Youngsters from years seven to 13 at Heckmondwike Grammar School staged their school production of Return to the Forbidden Planet this week.

It is based on Shakespeare’s play The Tempest and 1950s science fiction film Forbidden Planet with elements of rock and roll worked into the plot.

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The High Street school’s musical was directed by teachers Rosie Tinker and Sian Deo and it featured a live band, made up of children from years 10 to 13, alongside 65 performers.

Teacher Rosie Tinker said: “Along the way there has been laughter, tears and an uproar of groans spotting the witty Shakespearean puns throughout the performance.

“It has been a challenging show to put together but we couldn’t have done it without the hard work and dedication of each and every one of the students involved and the very gratefully received endless support from parents.

“A big thank you must also go out to staff who have helped us put the scenery together – particularly to Tim Copley for his tireless efforts to create the show and Graham Cole and his talented band.”

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Lead cast members include Tommy Ford as Captain Tempest, Golibe Ugoji as Dr Propsero, Lewis Roberts as Ariel and Charlotte Hoyle as Miranda.

Year nine pupils at the school have also worked on the set, building a spaceship as the backdrop to the musical.

Graham Cole, head of music, said: “I feel privileged to have worked on this show and with all the fabulous team associated with it.

“Band rehearsals have been enormous fun and the cast have been great to work with too.

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“How the leads have learned all the Shakespearean dialogue and then followed it with a rock and roll song is quite something.”

The school began rehearsals for the production in September.

The award-winning West End musical by playwright Bob Carlton was first performed in the 1980s.

It has been staged at the school since Wednesday and the final performance will be tonight from 7.30pm-10pm.

To book tickets, which cost £5, contact the school on 01924 402202.