A STANDING ovation was given to Tavistock College students who put on a dramatic production of Oliver! at the end of term.

The show, produced and directed by Eva Pearson, head of creative arts at the college was said to ‘bring the house down’.

The show involved students from all years and it was said that a lot of dedication and hard work had been put in from the performers, college band, technical staff and backstage help and from the smallest urchin to the outstanding leads, everyone put in a ‘magnificent performance’.

Ms Pearson said: ‘It was truly unforgettable and I hope the staff at Tavistock College are rightly proud of having given the students the opportunity and support to stretch their wings and fly.’

Many members of the audience sent letters of congratulations and described being ‘blown away’ by the performance. Notable performances were given by Year 10 student Luca Bergonzini as a terrifying Bill Sykes; Year 11 student Cyrus Larcombe-Moore as Mr Bumble and Year 8 student Heidi Turnock as Mrs Bumble. Year 7 student Adam Hutchings took the lead as Oliver, acting at a mature level way beyond his years and Year 8 Joseph Crosher played a cheeky Artful Dodger. But the show was stolen by by Year 12 student Anna Powell with her singing and acting as Nancy and the unforgettable performance of Year 12 student Peter Alexander as Fagin.

College Principal Sarah Jones said: ‘The show matched anything I have seen produced locally and many would agree it was as good as a West End show.

‘The cast received a standing ovation every night and it was very well deserved.

‘I am immensely proud of the students and staff who were involved in this show and I can’t wait to see what Ms Pearson produces next year!’