Our Lady Queen of Peace students deliver a magical production of Beauty and the Beast

Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic High School, Skelmersdale, recently brought Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. to the stage. They entertained audiences with the much-loved story, memorable characters and well-known songs.

The sold-out production took place over two nights and was met with rapturous applause from attendees, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of students across all year groups.

The 28-strong cast had been rehearsing since January, attending two rehearsals each week in preparation for the performances. Taking on the roles of the much-loved characters were Year 10 student Alicia Vicente as Belle, Year 7 student Ollie Sanders as the Beast and Year 10 student Lacey Lee Lawrenson as Gaston.

Behind the scenes, an equally dedicated group of 11 students played an essential role in the show’s success. The backstage crew attended weekly lunchtime sessions to design, sketch and paint the impressive stage scenery. They created a vibrant setting that transported audiences into the world of Belle and the Beast.

The technology team demonstrated exceptional creativity by designing and producing a range of homemade costumes for the enchanted furniture characters. Their work resulted in costumes that were both imaginative and recognisable.

Students were involved throughout every stage of the creative process, with many taking on additional responsibilities beyond performing. From set construction and costume creation to operating the sound during the evening performances, their teamwork ensured every aspect of the production ran smoothly.

Ollie, who played the Beast, commented:

“I started at Our Lady Queen of Peace this September as a Year 7 student, and I was so excited when I got the role of the Beast in the school production. I enjoyed attending all the rehearsals and working with the rest of the cast. I feel that the show gave me a lot more confidence.”

Miss Cawley, subject leader of performing arts at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic High School, said:

“I am incredibly proud of every student who played a part in Beauty and the Beast Jr. The passion and creativity shown by the cast, backstage crew and technical teams throughout the production have been exceptional. It has been wonderful to watch students grow in confidence, discover new talents and achieve so much together.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of this production has been seeing students from different year groups come together and form new friendships. Watching them support each other has been really special, and it’s one of the things I love most about being involved in school-wide events like this.”

Mrs Henshaw, headteacher of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic High School, added:

“It has been wonderful to see so many students involved in Beauty and the Beast Jr., both on stage and behind the scenes. Productions like this highlight the many talents within our school community and provide students with opportunities to grow in confidence. I would like to congratulate everyone involved for creating such an enjoyable show for our audiences.”