Children shine in first dance and theatre show

Pupils from a Westbury primary school have performed their first-ever dance and musical theatre show in front of 1,000 people at Bath Forum. 

Bitham Brook Primary School’s Lights, Camera, Dance 2026! event brought together 280 pupils to perform 25 routines, which was described as one of the best moments in the school’s history. 

Headteacher Gareth Simons said, “At the beginning of the year, it became very apparent the children were producing brilliant performances that deserved a bigger stage. They were challenged to produce ‘moments of greatness’ this evening which they did with such skill and composure. The level of performance was unbelievable and the atmosphere in the audience was electric!” 

Reflecting on the show, Amy Watts, who leads dance in the school alongside Polly Fox, said, “Watching the lights come up and seeing every child step onto the stage with a smile on their face was incredibly special. I hope this experience has given them memories to treasure forever and inspired them to continue believing in themselves, because every single one of them should be immensely proud of what they have achieved.” 

Children were joined on stage by local stars Lauren Filer, who has danced with stars such as Pharrell Williams and regularly performs at Glastonbury Festival, Sam Clarke, a theatre performer in Amsterdam, and Noah Heard, who recently starred as Galileo in a production of We Will Rock You in Trowbridge. 

The event also featured a dance by the ALW dance group led by Mimi Davis, a student at Matravers School. 

Alayna, Esme and Holly from Years 5 and 6 said, “We loved their performances! It makes us feel that we can do this one day if we work hard with enthusiasm.” 

Among the attendees were Westbury Mayor Carole King and Westbury Town Councillor Jane Russ. 

Cllr King said, “Bitham Brook showed on the night that it is a school of talents. The venue chosen certainly enhanced the production and allowed more than just parents to attend. The experience the school, its staff, and other professionals gave to the children will stay with them forever and they are to be applauded for giving such a wonderful opportunity to children outside the curriculum.” 

The school hopes Lights, Camera, Dance will return in 2027.