On Thursday the 9th of February, a group of friends and I attended the final night of our school’s annual production. This year we were lucky enough to watch an incredible rendition of ‘Oliver’, executed brilliantly by a talented team of actresses, stage hands, musicians and teachers.

The first thing that struck me as soon as I walked into the Marie Therese Hall was the atmosphere of excitement and anticipation for the last show, and the sense of community between all members of the production team. When we took our seats and I was immediately impressed by the beautiful backdrop painted by the Art department. Looking behind us, there was the sound managers and our Physics teacher behind a huge board of complicated switches and sliders. Down by the stage, musicians from all different year groups were preparing their instruments. One thing I really love about the production is the collaboration of different departments, using their own individual strengths to achieve the best quality musical they can.

As for the actual show, from the very outset it was clear that a lot of time and effort had gone into practicing the choruses and solos until they were pitch perfect. Each actress was exceedingly talented, especially the main characters such as Oliver, Nancy, The Artful Dodger and Fagin who blew us away with their powerful singing. Costumes and makeup were excellently put together, proven by the fact that it was often hard to remember that there were young ladies under the muddy faces and flat caps!

By the time that the interval came around, there was a shared astoundment in the audience at such a high standard of acting, singing, music and producing. Drinks and cakes were offered over in the canteen, as a group of dedicated volunteers raised for our most personal charity: The Meningitis Research Foundation.

The second act of the play was full of action, including the dramatic strangling scene- which may I add was handled extremely well by the sound team. Accompanied by aspects of comedy, tragedy and romance, it truly was a rollercoaster of a emotions. The saddest part of the production for me was the fact that it was the very last show for many Year 13s who had been a part of the musicals since their first year at St. Phil’s. Some girls even shed a few tears, which was completely understandable to me after observing the tight community that they ad formed with everyone involved.

Overall, I was greatly impressed with this year’s production of ‘Oliver’ by St. Philomena’s, and I am sure that it will keep getting better every year with the level of time, commitment and money that is sacrificed. I’m glad that I was able to see the product of such hard work, and it made me proud to be surrounded by such promising talent at my school.

Caitlin Charles, St. Philomena's High School