Budding young Gateshead thespians put finishing touches to production of Frozen

Talented students at Heworth Grange School in Gateshead, part of Consilium Academies, are working hard in rehearsals to put the finishing touches on their performance of Frozen later this month.

Last year, Heworth Grange was one of just 11 UK schools that won a competition to have the rights - for free - to perform Frozen. The Gateshead academy was the winner for the North East region.

The school entered the competition in July 2024 with MTI (Musical Theatre International) to win the rights to be one of the first schools in Europe to perform the popular musical.

The win was a dream come true for the local students, staff and community and especially pertinent with the Heworth Grange Youth Theatre's celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Following the success of previous productions at the Gateshead school, the performance of Frozen is unlikely to disappoint, with students having worked incredibly hard in rehearsals.

There are five shows - from Wednesday 25th (which is an accessible performance) to Saturday 28th June - and they promise to be fast-paced and entertaining, with lots of singing and dancing.

The students are very proud of their show and have put in hundreds of hours of rehearsals; they have also made props, practiced technical lighting and have produced creative supporting media.

Henry, who is playing Olaf, said: “My favourite part of Frozen is definitely the song In Summer, because it’s a really fun, catchy song. It’s a really good, fun show and you’ll have an amazing time.”

Emilia, who is playing Young Elsa, said: “I like that I get to do acting, which is one of my favourite things to do, with all of my friends.”

Lily, who is playing Hans, said: “We all get to do what we all love doing and we get to have a bit of a laugh with friends.”

Francesca, who is playing Bulder, said: “You become close to so many people you wouldn't have recognised around school before and it’s overall just an amazing experience to be part of.

“It’s a great show, it’s a right laugh to come and see. It’s the most amazing show and everyone's tried so hard, so you might as well come and see it!”

Sarah Owens, Head of Expressive and Performing Arts at Heworth Grange School, said: “The students are looking forward to showcasing their performing arts skills and I am very proud of their dedication and commitment to this performance.

“They have come together as a team, with the older Heworth Grange students supporting and encouraging the younger ones, enabling everyone to learn valuable lessons both on and off stage.”

Erin Anderson, Associate Assistant Headteacher at Heworth Grange School, added: “Taking part in the performing arts in this way enriches the lives of our young people and is a fantastic opportunity for them to demonstrate their creativity and to build confidence and self-discipline - skills that will benefit them across all areas of life."

Neil Rodgers, Headteacher at Heworth Grange School, said: “The students have been working so hard on this production and I very much hope that the whole community will come along and support them.

“I am looking forward to watching the show and know that our students’ performance is sure not to disappoint.”

Tickets can be purchased online at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/heworth-grange