The Jubilee Hall was rocked by rousing performances of Matilda Jr. on 29 February and 1 March, as our Lower School production was shared with our community. The crowd-pleasing likes of Revolting Children, Naughty and When I Grow Up were delivered in show-stopping style to delighted audiences, including a special matinee performance for students of STAHS Prep, Manor Lodge and Maple Primary School.

This was a huge team effort, with 59 students in Years 7 to 9 involved as either cast or crew, or as part of the technical team. The production was directed by Drama teacher Chris Bhantoa, who was supported by a team of Year 10 Assistant Directors and four crew mentors from Years 11 to 13.

He said: ‘I am so proud of the Matilda company. This was an ambitious production with huge dance numbers, difficult harmonies, and complicated scene-changes – not to mention four cast members flying above the audience’s heads on swings!

‘Throughout the entire process the cast and crew were enthusiastic, creative and resilient. Students from different year groups became friends; laughed; played; problem-solved; and worked together to produce a spectacular show. It was easy for me to forget that the cast and crew were not professionals, but 11-to-14-year-olds. I will sorely miss the silliness and happiness of each rehearsal, and will never forget the final performances.’