A theatre school celebrating its fifth anniversary got a star-studded surprise when Gary Barlow and James Corden wished them congratulations.
The 150-strong cast of Andrew Curphey Theatre Company’s special anniversary production, Five, were ‘gobsmacked’ when the Frodsham-born singer and songwriting sensation and his comedian pal popped up on screen to say congratulations after their second performance of the day at The Brindley Theatre in Runcorn on Sunday, Janaury 26.
Andrew Curphey Theatre Company launched in Widnes in 2009 and now runs classes in Frodsham, Runcorn and Warrington as well.
With a little help from Marjorie Barlow, the school’s ‘hugely supportive’ patron who also happens to be Gary’s mum, the talented pair were enlisted to give the performers a well-earned treat.
Gary wished the school a ‘massive congratulations’ and ‘all the best for the future’.
In a characteristically sardonic message, James expressed his sadness that he has written to Andrew ‘a number of times but you will not let me be a part of it’, before urging Andrew to ‘just pick up the phone’.
Owner Andrew Curphey, 27, from Widnes, said: “We didn’t do the surprise until after the evening performance. None of the children knew, or the audience.
“They were absolutely gobsmacked and there was a lot of screaming. It was really exciting.
“The school is all about having a go, making memories and building up confidence.
“I just hope that the success continues and that more classes can open.”
The school’s Frodsham classes take place at Castle Park Arts Centre.
Children’s theatre classes for six to 11-year-olds are on Wednesdays from 5.30-7pm and youth theatre classes for 12 to 19-year-olds are on Wednesdays from 7-8.30pm.
LAMDA tuition is also available for children aged over five, young people and adults on Tuesdays from 5-9pm.
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