Exmouth Students Dazzle in Five Sell-Out Performances of Mary Poppins
Nearly 100 talented students from Exmouth Community College delivered a spectacular, West-End-style production of Mary Poppins, wowing audiences across five sell-out performances at the Elizabeth Lee Theatre.
With two alternating casts taking on the iconic roles of Mary and Bert, the show impressed audiences with performances beyond the students’ years.
The production featured an 80-strong cast with a dedicated team of around 100 students, covering everything from production, lighting, sound, marketing, and acting roles to make the performances truly unforgettable.
The ambitious project had been in the works since Easter, with the Expressive Arts Team visiting local primary schools to showcase the production. The run began with a special matinee for local pupils, giving them the first taste of the performance.
Mrs Lauren Coull, Head of Drama and Director of the production, led the students alongside a talented student-led live band and technical team. Musical direction was provided by Mr Greg Susevee, choreography by Mrs Amy Phillips, and musical arrangements by Mrs Clare Rackham, with Miss Yessica Krosschell serving as Assistant Director and Stage Manager. Tech Manager Mr Lee Parvin ensured smooth running behind the scenes.
Mrs Phillips, Head of the Expressive Arts Faculty, said: “It is testimony to the dedication of our staff and passion of our students that we were able to produce a show accompanied by a live student band, supported by a student-led tech team and 80 strong cast members, all displaying talents that wouldn’t be out of place on a West End stage!”
Starring roles included Mary Poppins, played by the versatile Caylee and Eliza, and Bert, played by Robbie and Alfie. The roles of Jane and Michael Banks were expertly performed by Alex and Vinnie.
At Exmouth Community College, students are offered a broad educational curriculum with Expressive Arts as a strong thread throughout, including offering dance as a discrete subject at Key Stage Three. It also hosts a thriving extra-curricular offer as part of its focus on developing the ‘whole person’ in preparation for adult life.
The opportunity to be part of a full-scale production each year gives students first-hand experience of what it is like to be in a Theatre company.
Headteacher Tom Inman praised the production, saying: “Thank you to everyone involved who helped to make this show so magical. It is truly a brilliant example of the talent and dedication within our College community. Our students never fail to rise to the challenge and I’m so proud of their creativity and commitment.”
