More than just a musical!

5:07pm Wednesday 4th July 2001

Borehamwood's new secondary school is to stage its first major performance next week.

Around 80 pupils from Hertswood School, which opened last autumn, are involved in the production of the musical Oliver!, with a 50-strong cast and other pupils helping backstage.

The school's head of expressive arts, Andy Stainton, said pupils and staff had been working hard rehearsing for the production, to be performed to primary schools, parents and members of the public.

Rehearsals have been taking place up to four times a week after school, as well as some Sundays.

Preparations began with auditions in February, and year seven's Matthew Olly was cast as Oliver. Mr Stainton said: "Like any production it is hard getting everything together, but we have been lucky with the support of a lot of staff, and we have got some committed students who have been working hard with rehearsals."

The musical is due to be performed first to children from six primary schools on Tuesday.

The public performances will take place next Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in the lower school hall, in Cowley Hill, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from the receptions at both the Cowley Hill and Hillside Avenue sites of Hertswood School. Alternatively, call Christine Wainwright on 020 8238 7200.

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