VIDEO: Opening night of Annie Junior at Skegness Academy

Holly Manson, who took the lead role, had been telling her teachers for years that she wanted to play the part of the 11-year-old from the Great Depression, whose one hope was to leave New York Municipal Orphanage and find her parents.

Last night, Holly and a cast of 60 children showed the audience what a talented group of young people they are.

It would be unfair to single any of them out - some were seasoned performers with ambitions of a career in performing arts and others shone through their enthusiasm to be in a musical that was first staged in its original form on Broadway.

Kate Walker, head of performing arts, said she was proud of all the cast and everyone involved in the show, including the 60 children from Years 7 to 14 and members of staff.

She said: “We’ve been rehearsing two nights a week since October. There has been lots of blood, sweat and tears on our part and the children’s part. The parents have also supported us and allowed us to have their lovely children.”

Catch the second performance of Annie at Skegness Academy tonight at 7pm.

* See the Skegness Standard for review and more pictures.