TALENTED performing arts students trod the boards at an iconic West End theatre.
Youngsters from Stagecoach Colchester were invited to take part in an event marking the grand reopening of London's Shaftesbury Theatre.
They were among 160 students from 11 schools asked to appear at the venue and performed True Colours, by Sara Bareilles.
The Shaftesbury Theatre's stage had previously been dark for 14 months, having not been used since before the first lockdown in 2020.
Waiting in the wings - the Colchester students prepare to take centre stage, at the Shaftesbury Theatre
A virtual audience was able to enjoy the students' performances at home, thanks to a live stream via Zoom.
Stagecoach Colchester dance teacher Sarah Shepherd said: "It was so exciting to take a group of lucky students to perform in London.
"We called ourselves 'team courage' because they have all been so brave over the past year and together we took this great leap forwards to get back performing.
"As their teacher, it was a real joy to see their faces light back up, along with the stage."
Lighting up the stage - the students perform in the West End
The Shaftesbury Theatre is the biggest independent theatre in the West End and has been home to blockbuster musicals like Hairspray, Memphis and, most recently, & Juliet.
After months of rehearsals, the show took place on Sunday after being granted the use of the Society Of London Theatre and UK Theatre’s ‘See It Safely' mark.
This certifies that the theatre is complying with the latest Government and industry Covid guidelines.
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