AUDIENCES were moved to tears and brought to their feet by a stunning performance given by Tavistock College students in their senior school production of Blood Brothers.

A small group of 25 students in Years 10 to 13 acted, sang and played instruments in the musical — a tragic folk story set in Liverpool.

The tale centres on twin boys separated at birth because their mother could not afford to keep them both, having seven children already.

The boys grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, unaware of each other's existence until a chance meeting at seven-years-old where they become friends — and blood brothers.

The boys grow up and fall in love with the same girl and this ends in a tragic finale and the superstition that twins secretly parted, if ever they find they were once one of a pair, will immediately die.

The students were directed by head of drama Nick Lewis, who has himself performed leading roles in a West End version of the play.

Mr Lewis said: 'An incredibly enjoyable rehearsal process which started in September, mixed with a highly enthusiastic and talented company and cast, resulted in an extremely professional production in which both the acting and the singing were of a very high standard.

'The actors portrayed their characters with such detail that many in the audience who had seen the original production could not fault any of our students.

'The commitment to the project by every single member of the company made this production both a joy and a worthwhile experience for all those involved and the audience.'

Mr Lewis said standing ovations and the feedback by the public highlighted the impact the show had on the audiences.

He added: 'I am indebted to the support by the parents, the community and those who have been generous in offering donations to update the facilities in the hall. Special thanks to Mr and Mrs Evans and Mrs Packer for their generous support.'

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