Artists, musicians, actresses, designers and technologists from St Albans High School for Girls took up residence in the Town Hall recently to showcase their skills and raise awareness of the museum and gallery project.

Workshops included technical theatre prop making, video filming and editing, food sensory analysis and clothes design. Artists drew and painted the action as it happened while actresses performed The Crucible in the 19th century Georgian courtroom.

Heritage portfolio holder Cllr Annie Brewster, who is leading the museum project, said: “I am most grateful to the girls from the High School for giving us a snapshot of what an amazing cultural centrepiece the Town Hall is about to become.

“The courtroom has not been officially used for over half a century and the civic chamber for a quarter of a century.

“This iconic landmark was built for residents in 1831 and we intend to create a spectacular new museum and art gallery with free entry for residents and visitors alike.

“These students breathed new life throughout the proposed three floors of gallery and exhibition space and helped profile our fundraising campaign to a wider audience. We still need to raise the final 18 per cent of the £7.75m total and we are looking to the community to help secure this match funding so we can make this exciting project happen.”

Head teacherJenny Brown added “What a pleasure it was to watch our girls acting the witch trials of The Crucible in the 19th century courtroom, while our chamber groups played in the ballroom and winter sun streamed in over artists sketching on stairways and design students exhibiting their work.

“Our school aims of scholarship, adventure and integrity were perfectly reflected in the spirited, creative learning taking place and in the wholehearted support of a great cause at the heart of a great city.”