Last week, as schools were launching a new academic year, West End in Schools were embarking on our own kind of journey. Our mission: travel the world in 80 days. In a 55 minute musical. In a show that can fit into a school hall.

Specifically, we were back in the rehearsal room putting together our brand new musical Around the World in 80 Days, based on the classic adventure novel by Jules Verne.

West End in Schools’ Literacy Musicals are created to inspire a love of reading and storytelling. Each one includes an original story and songs while featuring contemporary children’s books as part of its narrative. Ahead of World Book Day 2019 we spoke to the writer of the musicals, Craig Christie.

We set out each year to try to inspire every child in the audience and to change the lives of one or two. But can theatre in education really make this happen?

“Can a pantomime really help the PTA?”

— Oh yes it can!

Many PTA’s help cover the cost of a school’s pantomime visit as a seasonal treat for the children, but did you know that pantomimes can be a fantastic fundraising tool as well?

Teachers often wonder whether they are better advised to visit their local theatre or to bring a specialist company into their school. When it comes to which option is best for your school, we think there are three main areas to consider: production quality, price and convenience.