December has been an exceptional and memorable month for Performing Arts, filled with creativity, collaboration and community engagement. From large-scale productions to local performances, our students and staff have worked tirelessly to showcase the outstanding talent within the department.

The month began with the Performing Arts Showcase, a sold-out evening celebrating student and staff achievements across music, dance and drama. Students delivered confident and inspiring performances, supported by staff and visiting music tutors in selected acts. Drama students presented powerful scenes, including extracts from DNA, while dance performances captivated the audience with energy and precision. The evening was full of festive spirit and was enjoyed by all who attended.

On the Saturday, four Performing Arts students — Grace B, Kaine C, Sophie D and Rose S — represented the school at the Light Up Clifton community event. Their festive singing was warmly received, and we would like to thank them for generously sharing their time and talent with the local community.

Preparations then moved swiftly into the highly anticipated pantomime, Beauty and the Beast. Students and staff worked with incredible dedication to deliver a successful and sold-out, three-night run, filled with laughter, music, and the traditional cheers and boos that make pantomime so special. The production was a true celebration of teamwork and creativity, and we extend our sincere thanks and congratulations to everyone involved. We are also grateful to parents and carers for their continued support throughout rehearsals and performances.

The year concluded on a high note with further musical performances from our school choir at the Clifton Church service, solo performances at Shefford Lower School and the choir at Oak Manor Care Home. These performances were a wonderful way to round off the year, highlighting the hard work, commitment and talent of our Performing Arts students and staff. You can see some highlights from this day here.

A huge well done to everyone involved for making December such a remarkable month for Performing Arts at Samuel Whitbread Academy.