Johnstone pupils have fun staging Lion King production with opera team

St Anthony’s Primary was one of only five schools chosen in Scotland this year to take part in the new collaboration with Disney and Scottish Opera.

Primary seven pupils worked directly with trained actors from the opera company, who taught them vital performing skills, as well as providing fun lessons in production and marketing.

The rehearsals were planned to culminate in a live performance in front of an audience at the Theatre Royal, in Glasgow, which unfortunately was unable to go ahead due to lockdown restrictions.

However, staff at the school described the opportunity to work with professional actors as a rich and valuable experience for the youngsters.

Pamela Gray, a classroom teacher at St Anthony’s Primary, said: “Our pupils were used to taking part in school productions and performing on a stage however, working in partnership with Disney and Scottish Opera gave our yearly school show an injection of excitement, enthusiasm and prestige. 

“The most rewarding thing to witness was the participation and enthusiasm of pupils who were reluctant performers in previous years or indeed wanted to join in but struggled to due to social and emotional challenges that they experienced.

“Despite our production being cut short the children were still given an experience that will stay with them forever. 

“What they didn’t get in finished performances in front of large audiences, they gained from an incredible team that taught them they are all capable of being part of an ensemble no matter the challenges they may face.”

Throughout the rehearsals, the pupils honed their singing, dancing and acting abilities, and were also able to help with set making and stage management.

Class teacher Danielle Craig added: “The impact of this experience on our learners has been so positive and has shown they can do anything they put their minds to. 

“It has been a privilege to be a part of, and we can’t wait to continue our journey and create more magical moments.”

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