Oliver JR – Penrice Academy Production 2024 Review

There was a memorable spectacle at Penrice Academy last week as the curtain rose on their highly anticipated 2024 school production of Oliver JR.

Full of classic, iconic songs like “Consider Yourself”, “Food Glorious Food”, and “Oom-Pah-Pah”, the audiences across three nights toe-tapped and clapped along throughout the shows.

Performing to over 200 people on each night, the Assembly Hall was buzzing and Penrice students received rapturous applause at the end of each night.

The week of shows finished with a special daytime performance to visiting Primary Schools on Friday.

Ms Tanya Coleman
Head of School at Penrice Academy

“What an incredible school we have! I am truly humbled and proud to have the honour of being Headteacher at Penrice.

From the acting to the singing, the props to the lighting and audio, I was blown away by the quality of the show. All students involved have shown incredible levels of teamwork, respect and determination to be a part of this school production and they should be incredibly proud of themselves.

I must say a massive thank you to the Oliver JR 2024 Staff Production Team of Mrs Ames, Mr Brodey, Ms Doorey, Mr Easterbrook, Mr Goodlad and Mr Jenyon. You have inspired the next generation of performing arts students and left a positive lasting impression with all of the children involved in this year’s production. After today’s performance to visiting Primary Schools you can go home, put your feet up and enjoy some thoroughly deserved rest!”

Work began on Oliver JR back in Summer Term 2023 when auditions took place. Since then, the actors and actresses have attended two rehearsal sessions per week, showing true commitment and dedication.

Also demonstrating great teamwork has been the Set, Costume & Prop Design Team who have worked tirelessly in the Penrice workshops behind the scenes to really bring the show to life.

Ms Coleman finished by saying:

“This week’s performances really illustrates how key character traits such as self-discipline, resilience and commitment can deliver an outstanding outcome. These traits are not just relevant to the performing arts, but in all walks of life. Congratulations to all involved!”

School productions are a core part of Penrice Academy’s DNA. Oliver JR comes hot off the back of Matilda JR in 2023 and Mary Poppins JR in 2022.

Penrice Academy would like to take this opportunity to thank the Penrice community for their ongoing support to school life and extra-curricular activities.