STUDENTS from Richard Taunton Sixth Form College Performing Arts Company 'razzle dazzled' audiences when they took to the stage to perform Chicago.

The cast performed to sold-out audiences and standing ovations at Southampton's Hub Theatre.

The musical tells the story of murderesses Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they vie for the spotlight, fame, fortune and ultimately acquittal with slick choreography, hit musical numbers and scenes of murder and deception.

Teaching staff, cast members, stage hands, technicians, musicians, directors, as well as make-up and hair have all been working towards the performances for the whole of the academic year.

Many members of the Chicago company have been offered places at numerous institutions and well known drama schools to study Performing Arts subjects in September 2019. Charlotte King (Velma) and Mary Moss (Mama Morton) have both been offered places to study Musical Theatre at the Brighton Academy, Rosie Mellett is off to the world-renowned Italia Conti to take up Acting, and Hayley Green and Crystal Turner-Brightman have been offered places to study Musical Theatre & Cabaret and Theatre at the University of Chichester.

Cast member Rosie Mellett, who played the role of Roxie Hart,said: “I couldn’t have hoped for a more rewarding and fulfilling experience! Challenged with the role of Roxie Hart, my peers and teachers were the greatest support and, with their guidance and expertise, I was encouraged to achieve my potential. I also had the privilege of being a student musical director and working with the ensemble to bring to life such iconic musical numbers was a highlight of my experience. Next year I’m thrilled to be studying Acting at Italia Conti and, thanks to all the help, motivation and care that I’ve received, I feel fully prepared for the future.”

Head of Performing Arts Kirsty McGregor added: “This is the tenth year we have presented a full scale production and what better musical to choose than one of the most iconic and dazzling of them all! The musical is definitely a challenging one with regards to style, choreography and pace, and we’ve been working hard for months to ensure that everything was performance ready."