Disney's High School Musical Review

The Cresset, Bretton, Peterborough

Until tomorrow

THE first thing that struck me about this vibrant production at The Cresset was the contrast between its East High setting and my own schooldays.

Not only were the pupils continually breaking out in brilliantly-choreographed dance routines, but the lads were able to pour their hearts out in song without meeting with an unfortunate "accident" in the playground afterwards.

It's easy to see why the production – an adaptation of the best-selling Disney film – has been such a huge hit with audiences. Although the shiny, happy school kids may be a bit different to the way I remember my classmates, the story deals with themes that everyone who has been to school can relate to.

For those of you who don't know, the plot follows two pupils from rival groups (brainiacs and sporty types) who try out for parts in the school musical.

Shy academic Garbiella Montez was played with a great deal of charm by Deborah Bodsworth, while her sweetheart, ambitious jock Troy Bolton was played wonderfully by Adam Pritchard, in fine voice and totally engaging in his role.

The star-crossed lovers have everything against them, including the scheming of Sharpay Evans (played with wonderful sass and attitude by Rachel Ostman) and her likeable but dim brother Ryan (who frequently had the audience in stitches with his deliberately over-done dance moves), who will stop at nothing to secure their rightful places in the school production.

The ensemble cast, including some 25 children from the Peterborough area, ran through the dance routines and songs with verve and enthusiasm, and the climax of the show met with a rapturous reception from the youngsters in the audience, many of whom were whistling and cheering at the very tops of their voices.

"It's really really good," 12-year-old Imogen told me during the interval.

"I know the songs already and my favourite character is Gabriella."

Ten-year-old George said he's seen the High School Musical DVD "either 22 or 23 times", and explained the appeal.

"The songs are really catchy and it's a good story . . . the dances are really good as well."