Madness abounds at Christleton High School this month as students rehearse for the senior school musical.
Pupils from Year 10 to sixth form are presenting Our House, the musical based on the work of 70s/80s ska group Madness with a story by Alvanley’s Tim Firth, of Calendar Girls fame.
The musical combines a witty and brilliantly-crafted romantic tale with the energetic and often madcap songs of one of the most famous English bands of all time.
The plot centres around the story of Joe Casey who, on the night of his sixteenth birthday, takes Sarah, the girl of his dreams, out on their first date.
In an effort to impress her with bravado, he breaks into a building site overlooking his home on Casey Street, which is owned by Mister Pressman, a high-end property developer.
The police turn up, at which point Joe’s life splits into two: the Good Joe, who stays to help, and Bad Joe, who flees. We then follow the path that each of these ‘Joes’ takes and, ultimately, how they coincide with potential disaster.
Featuring all of the most well-known Madness songs such as It Must Be Love, Baggy Trousers, The Sun and The Rain and, of course Our House, the show is packed with impressive show-stopping moments, great comedy and an intriguing storyline.
Director Simon Phillips said: “I am really pleased with the efforts of our incredible cast. This is a tough show in many respects, not just the singing of the complex musical numbers but the busy staging, very fast costume changes for the principals and some tricky ensemble dance numbers for the whole company. As ever, these young performers impress me with their endless energy, dedication and commitment to presenting the best possible version of the show on the night.
“In addition to the cast of 50, the production is supported by a crew of almost 20 students, plenty of staff, the CHSA and the encouragement and backing of the whole school population.”
Our House runs from November 24-28 and tickets can be purchased by clicking the Box Office link on the school’s website at www.christletonhigh.co.uk
