This summer, the Surrey Hills came alive with The Sound of Music, thanks to a performance by Stagecoach Performing Arts students. 

Stagecoach’s Summer Showcase event took place at the famous Rose Theatre in Kingston in August with around 80 Stagecoach Students from across the globe entertaining audiences with a rendition of the much-loved musical.

This year’s talented cast of Stagecoach students, who hailed from schools across the UK and abroad, including Malta and Spain, were chosen from hundreds of applicants. After successfully passing through the audition phase, they took part in a two-week residential course in Twickenham, training under the guidance of industry professionals to create the performance.

The hardworking and talented cast were steered by a fantastic creative team and Gary Jerry, a former Stagecoach student, directed the performance. Gary has forged a formidable career in the performing arts, most recently touring China with the successful singing troupe, The 12 Tenors.

Spencer, 16, has been attending Stagecoach Worthing since he was three and played the role of Captain Von Trap. He said: “I have learned so much from the experience of being part of the Summer Showcase. The creative team are amazing – they have such enthusiasm and so much knowledge and skills to pass on. It’s a great opportunity.” 

Olivia, 17, from Stagecoach Banbury, played Maria in this year’s show and said: “Stagecoach – and the Showcases I’ve done – have given me the perfect foundations of discipline, technique and audition skills. Not only is it two weeks of fun, but it’s also two weeks of really valuable training and networking to help you secure a place in the performing arts industry.”