Around 400 people supported the creative arts faculty’s latest production, which featured hit songs from the 1990s by artists including Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, TLC, *NSYNC and Christina Aguilera.

‘Popstars’ built on the successes of previous school productions, We Will Rock You, School of Rock, High School Musical, and last year’s The Addams Family Musical, with a legacy of existing talent and an array of younger performers.  

Reviewing the show on behalf of the Holderness and Hornsea Gazette, reporter and photographer Terry Bearpark said: “The fifth musical production by Withernsea High School once again demonstrated the great talent that exists on campus.

“‘Popstars’ featured a younger cast which carries on the school’s tradition of bringing out talent from its students. With a 25-strong cast and chorus, and some 30 dancers, the musical showed that the school is quite capable of developing new talent to maintain its high standard.”

Reflecting on the work of the production's musicians in providing the accompaniment to the onstage action, Lewis Fryer, teacher of music, said: “The band members were outstanding throughout our preparations for 'Popstars’. They dedicated so much time to rehearsals, bringing their own creative input and ideas into creating the soundtrack. The band demonstrated quality and professionalism throughout to deliver a truly memorable production.”

Show director, Beth Lewis, said: “The students worked super hard right from the auditions up until the show nights. Everyone involved worked so hard to ensure their characters were believable and interesting to watch. It has been lovely to work with students across all five year groups, seeing our older students mentoring the younger students to help them develop their skills and confidence for the stage, which resulted in a huge success each night.

Head of creative arts, Jamie Hughes, added: “Musical productions have now become a firm favourite here at the school, with all of our creative arts subjects coming together. This includes art, dance, drama and live music. Our suite of subjects offers an exciting outlet for our students to imagine, create and express themselves fully and I believe our students get the very best opportunities. This was showcased brilliantly over our three-night production of 'Popstars’. Well done to everyone involved!”