A LOCAL school has opened a new performing arts department – and excited pupils have already put on their first show.

Outwood Academy Carlton opened the new department in September and has since been working with the next generation of screenstars to put together a collection of shows.

On Wednesday, the department debuted the results of their work with the ‘A Night at the Musicals’ play, which combined dance and drama numbers from Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Hairspray.

These fledgling performers’ work was supported by singers from the school band, who helped bring the show to life.

Children were overjoyed to get the chance to perform in front of friends and family, and the show sold out all tickets the night they went up.

Head of the department, Beverley Clarke, said: “Before dance was merged with PE, but now we’ve brought it together with music and drama which allows us to put together a show like this.

“The kids have been doing all their rehearsals after school – they absolutely love it.

“I also think parents are quite keen to see their children perform because it’s been so long since we’ve done something like this.

“We’re now planning more in January to give everyone a chance to see them.”