Performing Arts at Sompting Abbotts: Oliver! Jr. is a Spectacular Success!
/The stage lights dimmed, the audience hushed, and then—magic happened! Our talented pupils brought the streets of Victorian London to life in what can only be described as a truly spectacular production of Lionel Burt’s Oliver! Jr.
A Standing Ovation Performance
Each year, our school productions seem to reach new heights – and this year was certainly no exception. After weeks of dedication and a final term packed with rehearsals, our Main School pupils (Year 3 - 8) delivered performances that left audiences spellbound.
Under the brilliant direction of Mrs Turton, Lionel Bart's beloved musical burst into life with incredible energy and talent. From the heart-wrenching solos to the rousing ensemble numbers such as "Food, Glorious Food" and "Consider Yourself," our young performers captured the essence of this timeless tale with remarkable skill and enthusiasm.
We're delighted to share a short video above of highlights from this remarkable production – a wonderful testament to the strength of our drama and music departments, and to the incredible hard work, talent, and teamwork of all involved. From the stirring solos to the energetic ensemble scenes, it truly was a performance to remember. We're immensely proud of everyone who brought Oliver! Jr. to life on our stage!
A True Team Effort
A production of this calibre requires dedication from many quarters. A huge well done to all our amazing performers, as well as the multitude of staff and parents who helped bring it all together behind the scenes. Special thanks must go to:
Head of Drama Mrs Turton for her inspired direction and vision
Head of Music Mrs Williamson for the wonderful musical direction
Head of English Mr Douch and Head of Art Mrs Tewkesbury for the fantastic stage design and set construction
The costumes, choreography, lighting, and sound all came together beautifully to transport audiences to another time and place.
Developing Skills for Life
At Sompting Abbotts, our commitment to the Performing and Creative Arts forms a cornerstone of our educational philosophy. By offering pupils opportunities to immerse themselves in art, design, dance, debating, drama and music, we provide them with a truly rounded education that extends far beyond the classroom.
These experiences help develop personal skills and a cultural appreciation that will hopefully last a lifetime – and perhaps be the prelude to exciting careers too. The confidence and communication skills honed through drama, music and the performing arts will be applicable to a whole range of roles in the working world ahead.
Drama plays a particularly significant role in life at our West Sussex independent school. We use it to help students:
Develop confidence and self-esteem
Enhance spoken elements of English study
Express themselves and understand the world around them
Look after each other and work effectively as a team
Capturing the Memories
Do keep an eye on our website for information about upcoming performances and arts events. The creative journey at Sompting Abbotts never stops, and we can't wait to see what our talented pupils will accomplish next!
Main School children at Sompting Abbotts Prep School, 2025 — dressed in costume and ready to bring Oliver! JR. by Lionel Bart to life on stage
Our pupils' fantastic costumes transport us straight back to Victorian London, from the ragged clothing of the workhouse children to the elegant outfits of the wealthy.
Just like in Oliver Twist, the late 19th and early 20th centuries saw:
● Workhouses still in use, though reforms were slowly improving conditions.
● Child labour was common, with many children working long hours in factories, mines, or as servants.
● The class divide remained stark, with the wealthy living in comfort while the poor struggled for survival.
● Education reform was taking hold, but many children from poorer backgrounds still lacked access to proper schooling.
This historical connection somehow makes our performance even more meaningful, reminding us how far society has come —and how stories like Oliver Twist continue to resonate today!
Enjoyed this post? Read more about drama and creative arts at Sompting Abbotts below
For this year’s show at Sompting Abbotts, Oliver! Jr., director Mrs Turton brought Lionel Bart’s beloved musical to life with incredible energy and talent. A huge well done to all our amazing performers, as well as the so many staff and so many parents who helped bring it all together.