PUPILS danced and sung their hearts out to rave reviews in their first performance of the musical Grease.

More than 60 pupils from the Belfairs Academy in Leigh took to the stage in the all-singing all-dancing musical.

The two leading roles of Danny and Sandy were performed by sixth form students Ted Groves and Eleasha Hammond, both 17, and the show was directed by Steve Hulse.

He said: “I have assembled a very strong cast of talented youngsters from across the academy who have all been a pleasure to direct.

“Auditions for the show took place back in July when my production team saw 150 hopefuls who we whittled down to 60 due to constraints placed on us in terms of numbers the stage can hold.

“We then began the rehearsal process from September, rehearsing for two hours at a time, four nights a week.

“All cast members have had to learn new skills, often coming out of their comfort zone especially with regards to singing and dancing, but they have all risen to the challenge tremendously.”

The cast was also given vocal training from Maria Nayler, who was once part of 90s pop group Ultraviolet.

Ted Groves, who was last seen as Cogsworth in the Belfairs production of Beauty and the Beast said: “I was honoured to be asked to do it. I’m having the time of my life.”

Eleasha Hammond added: “I’ve appeared in Belfairs productions before as a chorus member, hoping that one day I’d be selected as a lead.

“That day has now come and I love playing a role I feel was made for me.

“This is certainly one of the best memories I’m going to have at Belfairs when I leave at the end of the year.

“I’ve also enjoyed being Assistant Director and the shows main Choreographer.

“I’m so proud of what the other performers and I have achieved with this production.”

Mr Rodulfo, Principal at Belfairs Academy, was in the audience at the opening performance on Wednesday and was incredibly impressed by the students performance.

He said “It was another fantastic performance by all, thank you to both students and staff for demonstrating such commitment to achieve excellence!”

Bev Williams, CEO of the Legra Academy Trust, said: “’Whatever it takes’ is the motto of Belfairs Academy and yet again the staff and students have surpassed themselves showing resilience and talent in producing and performing to such a great standard that the show would be sold out if put on at the Cliffs Theatre!”

Tickets are still available for tonight and tomorrow priced at £10 for adults and £8.50 for concessions.

To book call 01702 509000.