Fourteen talented singers from Forehill Primary School in Ayr gave a ‘one night only’ performance of Hansel and Gretel with members of Scottish Opera at the Gaiety Theatre in Ayr.

In January 2005 Scottish Opera contacted Forehill Primary School and asked if a group of students would like to take part in a production of Hansel and Gretel at the Gaiety Theatre.

Marlyn Cairns, Choir Director and Teacher at the school held auditions that led to fourteen singers being selected to take part in the project. Those selected then had to learn lyrics, music and precise movements.

Lissa Lorenzo, Education Manager for Outreach Projects for Scottish Opera, went to the school and explained in detail what would be required of them on stage, and spent time training and rehearsing them.

During the performance at the Gaiety the students all had a singing and acting role, with each playing the part of a guardian angel and a gingerbread child who Hansel has freed from the wicked witch.

The one-off performance took place at the Gaiety Theatre on 19 April 2005 and was well received by members of the public judging by the audiences response.

The involvement of Forehill students in this project is an example of the Council’s commitment to develop cultural and sorting opportunities for young people in schools and communities.

Rehersals in progress with the students at Forehill Primary School with Sheena Templeton, Head Teacher (standing back left) and Marlyn Cairns, Choir Director (standing back right) and Lissa Lorenzo, Scottish Opera (seated centre row).

Students from Forehill Primary School rehearse on stage at the Gaiety Theatre, Ayr.

April 2005