Standing ovations for King’s Ely Junior’s vibrant production of Fame the Musical

There were hoots of laughter and standing ovations when talented King’s Ely Junior thespians staged the toe-tapping musical, Fame.

Pupils in Years 5 to 8 starred in the fast-paced show, which hundreds of families came together to enjoy in the school’s Hayward Theatre on March 8th and 9th. The sell-out production was directed by Laura Dixon, with musical direction by Neil Porter-Thaw and choreography by Natasha Hobbs.

Fame follows the highs and lows of the final class of New York City’s illustrious High School for the Performing Arts, from their first year in 1980 to their graduation in 1984. It tells the story of several of the students, depicting their struggles with ambition, fame, and self-confidence as the young performers explore the realities of striving for a career in show-business.

Laura Dixon, who is Arts Award Coordinator and Teacher of Drama at King's Ely, is delighted with the show’s success. She said: “The cast of Fame are delighted with the success of their production. The hard work they put in to the gruelling six month rehearsal schedule really paid off, with standing ovations from the crowds. 36 students took part in the production and became a strong and supportive cast. All of the pupils were totally focused and committed to their roles, whether in the ensemble, dance troupe or a named character. The final performances were full of energy and vibrancy that really transported the audiences back to the 80’s. I’m so proud of everyone involved and am already looking forward to the next one!”