Year 5 and 6 girls from a number of visiting schools were thrilled to learn the authentic choreography from the hit musical, Mamma Mia! at the ‘Hits of Hollywood’ Musical Theatre Workshop, which was hosted by St Mary’s on Tuesday 3rd March.

The workshop focused on developing three songs from extremely successful film musicals – Be Our Guest from Beauty and the Beast, A Friend Like Me from Aladdin and Mamma Mia from Mamma Mia! The Musical.

Throughout the day, the girls worked on a range of vocal techniques with Bethan Dudley Fryar, St Mary’s Director of Vocal Studies, and choreography with Dance specialist, Camilla Bates, for all three songs.

Camilla, who has just finished the European Tour of Mamma Mia! The Musical, taught moves from the title song of the hit musical, which was an exciting treat for the girls.

The girls also visited the school's Delscey Burns Theatre, and met with current St Mary’s girls over a delicious lunch in the Dining Hall, where they all chatted animatedly about their passion for music, drama and dance.

Parents were invited to attend a special performance to close the day. First, to inspire the girls to develop their passion for singing, three current St Mary’s girls - Elowen, Izzy and Charlotte - showcased their vocal talents. This was followed by a grand finale performance by the visiting girls of the three routines they had worked on throughout the day. The audience was clearly delighted and enjoyed afternoon tea (with ‘musical note’ cupcakes!) with the girls and St Mary’s staff afterwards.

‘The girls worked very hard throughout the day and I am extremely proud of their efforts. They are well on their way to becoming ‘a triple threat’, that is, performers who can sing, act and dance!’ said Mrs Dudley Fryar. ‘Congratulations girls!’