The Royal Hospital School (RHS), in Holbrook, Suffolk, was proud to present the stunning production of Les Misérables, School Edition, celebrating the grand reopening of its refurbished Assembly Hall, now renamed Greenwich Hall. The production, staged from 27th –29th November, was the school’s most ambitious to date, featuring 62 pupils, a 15-piece professional orchestra, and a crew of over 80.
Over a remarkable 10-week rehearsal period, pupils demonstrated exceptional dedication, adaptability and professionalism, rising to every challenge with maturity and enthusiasm.
Their commitment culminated in four performances that drew an extraordinary 1,600 audience members, one of the largest turnouts ever recorded for a school production at RHS.
The newly expanded Greenwich Hall, now the largest school theatrical venue in East Anglia with a 778-seat capacity, provided the perfect backdrop for this breathtaking performance.
Key pupil performances included Freddie’s (year 13) powerful portrayal of Jean Valjean, Ginny’s (year 13) captivating Javert, and Alice’s (year 13) moving rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” as Fantine. Jackie’s (year 13) Éponine and Bella’s (year 12) Cosette delivered emotionally charged performances, while James (year 13), as Marius, and Daisy (year 13), as Enjolras, both impressed with their vocal and emotional depth. Ben (year 11) and Lillie (year 11) brought humour and flair to their roles as the Thenardiers, and Theo’s (year 8) Gavroche charmed the audience with his infectious energy.
Brian Martineau, Head of Co-Curricular and Musical Director, commented on the performance, saying: “Les Misérables showcased the incredible talent and dedication of our pupils. The production’s success is a result of the hard work from both the cast and crew, and we are thrilled with how it all came together.”
Irfan Latif, Headmaster at RHS also added: “Our production of Les Misérables was one of the most powerful expressions of talent, teamwork and sheer heart that I have ever witnessed at school level. What our amazing RHS pupils achieved, in just ten weeks, was nothing short of extraordinary. The emotional depth, the professionalism on stage and behind the scenes, and the unity of the entire cast and crew created a standard of theatre that would rival many professional companies in the West End and on Broadway. I could not have been prouder. This was RHS at its very best.”
The opening night was also marked by a special ceremony renaming the Assembly Hall to Greenwich Hall in honour of Greenwich Hospital, with Tony Stenning, representing Greenwich Hospital, at the event.
Audience responses were overwhelmingly positive, with comments praising the production’s emotional impact, musical excellence and professional standard.
Categories: Royal Hospital School School News
