By Lewis Cowen
Students from Dauntsey’s School in West Lavington had a taste of West End fame on Monday night when they presented their version of the hit show Miss Saigon to a rapturous reception.
A full house of more than 1,600 rose to their feet at the Prince Edward Theatre to show their appreciation for a stirring and polished performance of the hit musical Miss Saigon.
Following a very successful premiere of Miss Saigon School Edition in December, Sir Cameron Mackintosh invited Dauntsey’s pupils to perform at the magnificent Prince Edward Theatre in the heart of the West End.
A talented cast and crew of more than 150 students staged a brilliant, intense and emotional show and everyone – cast, crew and audience – enjoyed a thrilling and memorable occasion.
Dauntsey’s is well known for the high standard of its productions and in recent years has premiered a number of West End musicals including Evita and Spamalot.
Back in 2003, Dauntsey’s pupils performed Les Miserables at The Prince of Wales Theatre in the West End. To be invited a second time by Sir Cameron Mackintosh is a real tribute to all those involved in the production.
Headmaster Stewart Roberts, who leaves Dauntsey’s in the summer after more than 14 years as head, said: “It is a great honour for the school to be invited to perform in the West End, and for the second time in ten years.
“It was a golden day in the school’s history and will be remembered with pride for many years to come.
“To have just one run through in the afternoon said much for the professionalism of both the staff and the pupils and, judging by my bulging inbox this morning, the audience was amazed by the quality of the production.
“I am so lucky to have been a part of so many exciting events such as this during my time as headmaster. The West End is certainly alive and kicking in West Lavington.”
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