Pupils at the Alec Hunter High School in Braintree have been praised for their hard work at making the production of Bugsy Malone a huge success

The performances of Bugsy Malone, which is set in America in the 1920s and is about two rival gangs, were held last week and more than 80 students appeared on the stage.

Other students were involved in the music, back stage management and lighting.

All parts of the school community, including teachers, governors and support staff, helped in the production, as well as parents and friends who helped with the costumes.

The show's director Sue Pollock, who is also head of expressive arts, said: "The students have excelled themselves with their commitment and performances. I am grateful for all the support of parents, governors and staff which has helped to make this such a successful production," she said.

Ready for action! Pictured at a dress rehearsal are (left to right) Gemma Knott as Blousey Brown, Sean Carter as Bugsy Malone, and the gangster group, Annette Pinder, Matt Bennett, Edward Groombridge, Thomas Maynard and David Grove.

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