Whilst the rest of us were eating chocolate eggs and relaxing in the sunshine, some of our pupils were busy in the theatre. Sonny Wilson in year 8 and Emie-May Burnett in year 9 were cast in Whitby Amateur Dramatics production of Goodnight Mr Tom, with Sonny playing William Beech.

The play tells the story of young William as he is evacuated from London to the countryside during World War 2. His new home is with the socially isolated and grumpy ‘Mr Tom’ who slowly begins to open up to William.

On the closing night several of the school staff were able to go and see Sonny and Emie perform to a full house, and we were thoroughly impressed by their confident and moving performances. This was Emie-May’s first time performing in a play in Whitby, although she is no stranger to the stage as a dancer. Playing parts in the chorus she was a confident and kind nurse and also took a turn as a school teacher. We all look forward to seeing her next production! Sonny showed real dramatic range as William, portraying the scared little boy through his anger and his enjoyment of playing with new friends. He rarely left the stage as William and had a great number of lines to learn and a song to sing too. He was confident on stage and the audience warmed to his character quickly.

Well done to all the cast and the director Katrina Stead. A wonderful production, what amazing opportunities we have in our local area.