CONSIDER yourself well in if you were part of the audience who gave a standing ovation to the large cast of a school s final performance of the musical Oliver! after a three night sell out run. The 60-plus cast, made up of students from all year

CONSIDER yourself 'well in' if you were part of the audience who gave a standing ovation to the large cast of a school's final performance of the musical Oliver! after a three night sell out run.

The 60-plus cast, made up of students from all year groups at Mountfitchet Maths and Computing College, provided a packed hall with an evening of pure family entertainment - from the dramatic opening with the workhouse children marching towards the infamous gruel; to the comedic highlight of Jack Clements' funeral director; to Robyn Green, as Nancy, delivering a superbly heartfelt As Long As He Needs Me.

The title role was played by Megan Warwick, a Year 7 student, who gave a poignant performance as Dickens' famous character.

The whole cast numbers, bringing Victorian London vividly to life through the set and costumes, were particularly effective.

Alex Ross, as Fagin, and his boys 'picking a pocket or two', showed off some inspired choreography whilst the market traders' scene exhibited some gifted and talented singers: Lewis Edridge's baritone contrasted beautifully with the soprano voices of Rosie Greaves, Michaela Flanders and Sophie-Alice Wyld.

The orchestra, made up of students, teaching staff, governors and parents, enhanced the evening with their professional performance of Lionel Bart's famous score.

Students were also responsible for the stage management, make-up, lighting and sound technology which all added up to a fast-paced, accomplished and truly entertaining production

Headteacher Jo Mullis said: "The sheer professionalism of the students in this production has shown the college for what it truly is: a place where every child is given the opportunity to become a part of our community, to aim high and to achieve their ambitions."

Alongside the production, the school held a taster performance for 140 primary school children and teachers. It had such an impact on children from Bentfield that they produced their own reviews and pamphlets which were displayed for all to see at the main performances.