‘SPIRITED’ performances were the order of the day last week for a beast of a production that saw local students playing to a full-house.

Disney’s musical Beauty and the Beast was staged by pupils at the Dean Academy in Lydney - the school’s first show in several years - and, according to head of performance, Kathryn Rodway, the production was ‘outstanding.’

“The cast wowed packed audiences during the spectacular two- night run,” she said.

“Year 10 student Cj Hudson was formidable as the young prince who had been turned into a monstrous beast. He becomes enchanted by the beautiful Belle, played by Georgia Watson, who captures his heart and releases him from the curse.

“There were spirited performances from Year 10 student Kai Powell as the vain and arrogant Gaston and his bumbling sidekick, LeFou, was played to comedic effect by Ella Turner in Year Seven.

“The comedy was offset by the sinister presence of the wolves, portrayed by a group of talented dancers from Years Seven to 10, who inhabit the mysterious woods outside the castle.

“Our students delivered an outstanding performance on both evenings that showstage yet. We can’t wait to begin promoting our next whole school production.”

Phil McNeill, who directed the production, added: “We are incredibly proud of all our young people who were involved in this production, both front and back stage.

“Despite it being many years since our last show, they’ve shown that they are more than capable of reigniting the tradition of performing arts at the school.”