The week before Half Term saw the staging of this year's senior production "Evita" at Leighton Park School. The performances achieved way beyond the expectations of the two directors.
Standing ovations were experienced on each night and the whole cast, crew and orchestra responded magnificently to the challenge of this complex and emotional work. The performances of the principals received much praise for their skill in portraying subtle nuances in their characters development and the achievement of Frankie Taylor (Lower Sixth) in the title role was widely lauded as was the impact of Finty Kelly (Year 11) who performed as “the Mistress” in the iconic “Another Suitcase in Another Hall”.
Alex Wayman (Year 11) tackled the difficult role of ”Peron” with aplomb, displaying a rich vocal tone at all times. The innovative use of four actors (Huw Tarry (Upper Sixth), Annabel Smith (Upper Sixth), Duncan DiBiase (Upper Sixth) and Funto Fabunmi-Alade (Lower Sixth)) to play the observers was widely appreciated. Their powerful stage presences and skill in singing in a variety of styles was well received by the audience. Simon May (Upper Sixth) was excellent as the nightclub singer, “Magaldi”. 
Particularly gratifying was the response to the controlled singing and powerful presence of” the Ensemble”.
The performances were not merely a showcase for the talents of the principals. All of this was underpinned by the excellent playing of our 19 piece Evita orchestra. The directors have been inundated with messages of congratulation from many of the audience. They are, of course, delighted by the response, but just as pleased by the achievement of a significant number of the cast who had never sung, danced or acted in public before.
Alex McGrath, Head, added ‘Music and Drama are huge strengths of Leighton Park School, this production is a true proof of this. The company of actors and musicians together gave the whole production a power and energy, and produced a synergy which lifted the entire show.’
Their achievement reflects the directors` privilege in working with this magnificent group of young people.