The SWANAGE School set a new school record when they sold 500 tickets for their upcoming production of Matilda the Musical in just two days. 

The secondary school has built up a strong reputation for musical theatre over the past eight years, and are staging this year’s production at the Mowlem Theatre. 

With a capacity of 380, there will be more audience members than there are students at the entire school. 

They are staging four performances from February 22 to 24, 2024, including a matinee on the final day. 

Credit: Jason Selman

Harry Peake, director of performing arts, said: “We were a little surprised to be honest. 

“Ticket sales are always good but the speed at which the tickets for Matilda flew out on the release weekend set a new record.

“I think the sales reflect a combination of 8 years building a reputation of producing great musical theatre and Matilda being a firm family favourite.”

It is a whole school production with the cast and production team made up of 75 students, including new Year 7s who started in September. 

Principal roles were cast last academic year. 

“I’m a very proud teacher, but now the hard work really begins.”

The school is part of Connections, the National Theatre’s regional outreach scheme, alongside 260 other youth theatre groups. 

The shows are seen by industry professionals who select productions to move to regional venues, and invite the best to perform at the National Theatre in London. 

Last year, The Swanage School’s performance of Superglue was moved to The Lighthouse Theatre in Poole. 

But they quickly moved onto the next production.

“The first few rehearsals with the full cast have felt electric, and the students are incredibly professional. 

“We have a long way to go before opening night in February, but rest assured, we will bring you another great show!”

Credit: Jason Selman

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The Swanage School is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. 

They are proud of their pastoral curriculum and extra-curricular opportunities built up over the past decade to accompany their academic performance. 

Matilda the Musical is at the Mowlem in Swanage from February 22 to 24, 2024. 

For more information and to book your ticket, visit https://themowlem.com. 

To view the school’s prospectus visit: https://www.theswanageschool.co.uk/Prospectus and you book a tour by calling 01929 500599.