Anyone interested in a part in the show was asked to attend an audition, where we were asked to sing a song of our choice. I sang How Far I’ll go from Moana as my audition song. The audition panel was Mrs Howell, Mrs Hammerton and Mr Gregson. Following the first audition, some of us were asked for call backs for certain parts in the show. I was so excited to find out I had a call back for the part of Moana. It then felt like a long wait after the call backs until the cast list was revealed.

I can remember going in to school one morning and going to the Drama department excitedly to check the cast list. As I got there, there were already lots of people crowded around reading the list to see who had got what part. I couldn’t believe it when I saw my name next to the part of Moana. I was so happy and excited.

Once all the parts had been given out, after school rehearsals started. We got given the scripts for Moana Junior, and then started to learn the script and learn the songs. We attended rehearsals at least once or twice every week. Sometimes these rehearsals were as a full cast, other times they were 1-1 singing lessons, and other times they were in small groups doing specific parts, songs or dances.

As time went on, we started to put sections of the show together, and rehearsals increased to sometimes 3 times a week after school and some lunchtimes too. Behind the scenes, there were also teachers and students building the set, sorting props and making costumes.

In March 2025, after about 4-5 months of rehearsals and preparation, it was finally show week. On the Monday of show week, we had a day off timetable for a full technical rehearsal where all the lighting and sound was set, and then we had a full dress-rehearsal during the afternoon. Local primary schools were invited to watch the dress rehearsal.

Then we held 2 evening shows on the Monday and Tuesday evening. These were held in the school hall, and we had almost sold out shows both nights. The shows went well, and everyone who watched seemed to enjoy it. The show set and props were really good, and a lot of people commented how effective the set and canoe were. Most of the costumes were also hand made by teachers and students. Some of these were really fancy and looked so good. All the sound for the show and lighting was done by students too.

I absolutely loved doing the show. It was so much fun and such a good experience. I have met so many people by doing the show. I have got to know lots of other students from year 7 up to 6^th form, and have got to know lots of teachers too. The best thing about the show has been the fun we have had doing it. I am sad it is all over now. I would recommend it to anyone to get involved in a school show in the future.

Thank you to all the staff involved with the Moana school production, including Mrs Howell (Director), Miss Hammerton (Music), Miss Hasleshurst (Choreography), Mr Gregson (Stage Manager), Mrs Caton (Lighting), Dr Jones (Costume), Mrs Haslock (Costume) and Mrs Blackwell (Front of house).