Did you know that Cinderella ended up marrying a mince pie maker and not the handsome Prince at all?

Year 5 and 6 girls from Burgess Hill School for Girls found this out when they began rehearsals for their Christmas Show. Roald Dahl’s version of the story is somewhat different from the original, with the Prince proving to be a heartless dictator and Cinders meeting a horde of rapping rats!

The pupils produced a witty and unique performance, acting on a stage along the length of Oaks Hall to an audience on both sides.

The double cast included two Cinderella, two Princes and four Ugly Sisters and was clearly enjoyed by parents and friends. Over seventy girls took part in the production and every one had a speaking part. Some of the pupils learnt to master the tango while others worked hard off stage producing props.

The varied and upbeat music was expertly directed by Junior Music teacher Mrs Playford, with many of the girls providing their own choreography and costumes.

Fenneke Fulleylove, Head of the Junior School explained the production was achieved with the help of parents as well as staff and pupils.

“Mrs Smith directed the drama with some inspiring input from Mrs Watkins, a Year 5 parent. Another parent, Mrs Chadd was on hand with needle and thread to produce the speciality items.”

“Up in the lighting box the teachers Miss Armitage and Miss Collins managed with some complex sound and lighting plots. Well done to everyone involved in this truly magical show.”

One student commented “It was so much fun I want to do it every night!” 

Cast members

Ugly sisters and mince pie makers

Tango dancers

Cinderella’s stage coach

02/12/09