High School Musical at the Abbey Theatre, St Albans
High School Musical - Credit: Archant
Audiences attending St Albans Youth Music Theatre’s production of the modern Disney classic High School Musical this week may be in the presence of future greatness,
Former members of St Albans Youth Music Theatre (SAYMT) range from TV and theatre actors to West End stars and successful musicians.
Alumni include Holby City actor Adam Astill, S Club 7 star Paul Cattermole, musical theatre actor Sarah Whittuck, professional musician Nick Stephenson, dancer Edd Mitton and RSC actor Daniel Fraser, to name just a few.
Many more have won places to drama school and/or performed with the National Youth Theatre (NYT) or National Youth Music Theatre (NMYT).
Director Ellena Ophira, herself a former SAYMT and NYT member, said several of the High School Musical cast were planning a career in the theatre or music business and a few had already auditioned for and even performed in professional productions.
She went on: “SAYMT is a great springboard for any young person looking to try their hand at performing, whether they have professional aspirations or are just looking for a fun, social activity.
“It encourages discipline and boosts confidence while also teaching key performance skills and, most exciting of all, giving members the chance to perform in a real theatre. The Abbey Theatre’s facilities are so close to those of many professional theatres that it really does give a taste of what it might be like to do this as a career.”
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Elouise Wathan, who plays Kelsi Neilson in the show, commented: “It’s my dream to pursue an acting career and being part of SAYMT gives me the chance to experience what that might be like. I love it; I get to learn so much and work with my friends on so many brilliant shows.”
A modern twist on Romeo and Juliet, High School Musical tells the story of students Troy and Gabriella, who fall for each other despite being from rival friendship groups. Performances take place on the main stage at the Abbey Theatre at 7.30pm tonight (Thursday), tomorrow (11) and Saturday (12) with the Saturday matinee already sold out.
To book tickets go to www.abbeytheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01727 857861.
