Performing Arts

At Southfield Primary School, the performing arts are a cornerstone of our educational experience, enriching our students’ development in countless ways. Every year, each year group has the thrilling opportunity to participate in two spectacular productions that showcase their talents and celebrate their growth.

Our dazzling Christmas performance marks the joyous end of the Michaelmas term, while the vibrant Summer Show provides a grand finale to the Trinity term. These highly anticipated events are much more than just entertainment; they are transformative experiences for every pupil. Each child is encouraged to take the stage, whether to sing, act, dance, or support behind the scenes, ensuring that everyone is part of the magic.

The performing arts offer incredible benefits, helping our pupils develop essential skills that extend far beyond the stage. Through rehearsals and performances, students build confidence as they overcome nerves and step into the spotlight. Their oracy skills improve as they learn to speak clearly and project their voices, enabling them to communicate effectively. Collaborative efforts foster teamwork and resilience, while creative expression nurtures self-awareness and emotional growth.

By prioritizing the performing arts, we give our students the tools to grow not only as performers but also as well-rounded individuals. At Southfield, we celebrate every child’s unique potential, providing an inclusive space where they can discover their talents, connect with their peers, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The stage is where their journey of confidence, creativity, and personal growth truly begins!

Below are some snippets for this year's offering: 

 

 

Reception - The Nativity

In Reception for our Christmas Production we performed the traditional Nativity where Mary and Joseph go on a journey to Bethlehem for the birth of Jesus Christ. Along the way they encounter shepards, an angel, three wise men and a very friendly innkeeper who all come together to celebrate Jesus.

To bring this performance to life the stage is transformed into the town of Bethlehem with sheep, palm trees, buildings and a shining star to guide the way.

The children also took real care in creating realistic and incredible costumes that helped enhance the story and got the children excited and into performance mode.

Here are what some of the children said throughout their time rehearsing and after the live show!

 ‘I had so much fun!’ - Leo 

‘Going on stage was scary but really exciting.’ - Gabrielle

‘My mummy and daddy were so proud of me!.’ - Eva

‘I liked learning all the songs and dances.’ - Marley 

‘When’s the next show?’ - Harold

Year 1 - The Honkey Tonkey Donkey 

Honky Tonky, the world's only one-man band donkey, is struggling with writer's block. Looking for inspiration, he is delighted when Mary and Joseph ask for his help on their journey to Bethlehem. Surely he will find inspiration there? With the arrival of a new-born baby, not to mention angels, shepherds and kings, Honky Tonky soon finds he has plenty to write about.

Year One absolutely loved coming together to put on this performance for all their adults. They worked so hard to learn all the songs and worked on new skills like voice projection and using a microphone. Their skills and commitment were magnified by their incredible costumes and props. A real highlight for the children was seeing it all come together with professional lighting. 

“I felt so proud on stage as I worked really hard to learn my lines.”

“I loved working with the other class and being able to show the whole school our rehearsals.” 

Year 2 - Hey Ewe!

This Christmas, our wonderful Year 2 pupils were thrilled to take to the stage to perform the lively and heartwarming nativity, Hey Ewe! Set in the Roman era, the play was told through the eyes of a curious little sheep who had a deep feeling that something exciting was about to happen. While the rest of the flock grew increasingly annoyed by the lack of sleep they were able to get, the determined little sheep persevered on their quest to uncover what was coming. Along the way, the story brought the traditional nativity to life in a fresh and humorous way, featuring bustling shepherds, joyful angels, majestic kings, and, of course, the arrival of baby Jesus. The children captivated the audience with their storytelling, catchy songs, and heartfelt performances. Their hard work and enthusiasm shone through in every scene, leaving everyone smiling and truly capturing the spirit of Christmas!

The stage was brought to life with a stunning hand-painted skyline of Bethlehem, surrounded by lush bushes, adorable baby sheep, and grand palm trees, with grass and foliage beautifully protruding from all sides of the stage. Adding to the magic, the children fully embodied their roles with an incredible array of costumes, including Roman soldiers, flocks of sheep, wise men, donkeys, and, of course, Mary and Joseph. The vibrant set and detailed costumes created a captivating atmosphere that transported the audience straight to the heart of the nativity story.

From the very beginning, all Year 2 pupils were fully engaged, taking the time to discuss and explore every aspect of the play. They learned that it’s the combined effort of all cast members—no matter how big or small their role—that helps create a truly great show. This experience not only allowed them to shine on stage but also deepened their understanding of the theatre and the hard work that goes into producing a memorable performance. From rehearsals to the final bows, the children worked together as a team, making Hey Ewe! a production to remember.

“I loved Hey Ewe! The songs were great, and I had to perform a dance in front of the whole audience. I was so proud of myself.” – Florence

“I had so many lines to learn. I didn’t think I could do but I get practicing and show was amazing! I felt so happy afterwards.” – Alia

“Hey Ewe was really funny. The audience laughed lots so I knew we were doing a good job.” - Mousa

Year 3 - The Mouse in Santa's House

This year’s Year 3 Christmas performance, The Mouse in Santa’s House, was a heartwarming and hilarious mini-musical that brought festive cheer to all who watched. The enchanting tale followed twin brothers, Timmy and Tommy, as they dreamed of the perfect Christmas gift: pet mice! Unlikely though it seems, two mice, Tip and Top, take a quick nap amongst the presents in Santa’s Workshop, beginning Tip and Top’s flight of a lifetime and their subsequent arrival at the house of two very lucky young boys. From the North Pole to the boys’ very own home, the performance was packed with laughter, music, and Christmas magic.

The children threw themselves wholeheartedly into rehearsals, bringing energy and creativity to every practice. They worked collaboratively to design and create stunning props and costumes, adding their own festive flair to the show.

Throughout the process, the children shared their vision for the final performance, interpreting the script with imagination. They choreographed actions for the songs and added personal touches to the characters, making The Mouse in Santa’s House a truly unique and memorable production for all.

With wonderful acting, lively songs and a festive atmosphere, The Mouse in Santa’s House was a joyous celebration of holiday spirit and the power of wishes coming true. 

“At the start of rehearsals, I felt quite nervous. Thinking about the bigger picture, I ignored my fears and after the play was finished I felt impressed with myself for doing it!” - Marcel

“I felt the play went really well! I loved making people laugh by pretending to be an old person, especially when I walked slowly all around the hall with my walking stick.” - Teuta

“I really enjoyed the play, especially the costumes!” - Isabel

Year 4 - Home for Christmas

This Christmas, Year 4 had the privilege of performing ‘Home For Christmas’ – a wonderful musical which explored the contrast between the bustling commercialism of a modern Christmas with the plight of the homeless. This was the first time ‘Home For Christmas’ was performed at Southfield, which made it even more exciting for Year 4 and their audience.

Our performance followed siblings Nicky, Ben and Paul and their friendship with a homeless women called Kate. Eager to help, we watched as the children persuaded their Mum to help Kate and explored the differences between people’s experiences of Christmas. As well as this important message, the performance included some fantastic songs and solos such as ‘4 Days To Go’, ‘Carol Medley’ and ‘Celebrate’ which the children performed with enthusiasm and an infectious energy.

Our performance also linked to our work in the classroom as we explored the theme of homelessness through the novel ‘Street Child’; a story inspired by Dr Barnardo. Our work in English lessons and Charities Week, raising money for ‘Barnardo’s’, supported our understanding and performance of this powerful story.

Year 4 were involved in every aspect of the performance: rehearsals, prop making and costumes - broadening their understanding of all the elements of performing arts. The children absolutely loved these experiences, see below what they had to say:

‘I loved all of it! It was brilliant’ – Mariella

‘There was a role for everyone – it’s so fun getting to sing, dance and act!’ – Alfie

‘You have the chance to perform to your parents – it was great to feel how proud they were of me!’ – Wassim

‘Whether you’re on or off stage, you always feel included and involved’- Chrissy

Year 5 - Bah Humbug!

This December, Southfield’s year 5 classes brought the magic of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to life with our enchanting production of Bah Humbug!. Featuring a cast of talented pupils, dazzling costumes, and 10 unforgettable songs, the performance was a perfect blend of festive cheer, heartfelt moments, and creative storytelling.

The musical numbers were a true highlight of the show. The rousing “Glad to Be a Chimney Sweep” saw the stage come alive with a spectacular all-singing, all-dancing ensemble. “Fezziwig’s Shindig” had the audience clapping and tapping along, while the title song “Bah Humbug!” was performed with dramatic flair and playful energy that perfectly captured Scrooge’s grumpy demeanour. The show was concluded by the timeless classic “Joy to the World,” which filled the audience with festive cheer.

A standout feature of Bah Humbug! was the creativity and effort that went into the props and set design. From handmade chimney sweeps to intricate Victorian-style decorations, many of the props were crafted by the children themselves, adding an extra layer of pride and magic to the production.

Here’s what some of the children had to say about their experience:

“I loved performing ‘Glad to Be a Chimney Sweep’ because it was so energetic, and everyone worked together like a real team!”

“Making the props was so much fun. I painted my own chimney sweep, and it felt amazing to use it during the dance!”

“Singing ‘Bah Humbug!’ was my favourite moment. I loved making all of the faces behind scrooges back!”

The success of Bah Humbug! was made possible by the dedication of our pupils, staff, and families, who worked tirelessly to create a show that will be remembered for years to come. From Scrooge’s journey to redemption to the joyful carols that filled the air, the performance truly captured the spirit of Christmas: kindness, generosity, and togetherness.

Year 6 - Christmas 1914

Our play begins in August 1914, with the announcement of war stirring emotions of both patriotism and apprehension. Joe and his friends, driven by a mix of excitement and duty, rush to enlist, leaving behind their anxious families and sweethearts. This moment captures the spirit of youthful optimism that characterised the early days of World War I, where many believed the conflict would be short-lived and glorious. The sense of departure is underscored by a rousing chorus of wartime favourites, creating an atmosphere of both camaraderie and heartache as the lads bid farewell to their loved ones.

As the war progresses, our story shifts to the home front, where the community comes together to maintain morale and support one another. A poignant scene takes place during a Christmas carol concert, symbolising the resilience and unity of those left behind. The carols, filled with both joy and melancholy, serve as a reminder of traditions being upheld amidst uncertainty. These moments emphasise the impact of war on families and communities, showing how bonds were tested yet strengthened in the face of shared loss and hardship.

Our play concludes with a moving moment of remembrance, as the community reflects on the absence of their loved ones. This final scene is both a tribute to the sacrifices made by the soldiers and a sombre acknowledgment of the realities of war. By honouring those who did not return, our production leaves the audience with a profound sense of gratitude and reflection.

This play brought to life the human aspects of World War I, complementing our historical studies by adding emotional depth to the facts we’ve learned and the knowledge we have gained over the Michaelmas term. Seeing the characters’ enthusiasm to enlist mirrored the propaganda and societal pressures we discussed in class, while the anxious families depicted the home front’s emotional toll. The carol concert scene highlighted the cultural significance of Christmas during the war, reinforcing our understanding of events like the 1914 Christmas Truce. Finally, the moment of remembrance connected powerfully to the themes of loss, sacrifice, and memory we explored in lessons. By dramatising these experiences, the play helped us better appreciate the personal stories behind the statistics, making our study of World War I more vivid and meaningful.

 'I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the year's Christmas show because it highlighted the emotion behind the story and the hardships that people face every day during the war'- Marie. 

'The Year 6 Christmas production was exciting. My friends and I experienced life as soldiers in World War 1. It felt like we were a family, all fighting for each other' - Nano.

'Taking part in the Year 6 production of Christmas 1914 was a great experience to be part of. I enjoyed the concept of roleplaying what it would have been like during the beginning of the First World War, in a time when women began to gain power across the country. I also loved that could act with all my friends throughout many rehearsals before we eventually performed our production' - Etta.

'Taking part in the Year 6 play Christmas 1914 was a fantastic experience. It helped me to understand how women in World War 1 fought to get the vote and how they faced challenges with their friends. I also acted with some of my close friends and it felt like we were really at the beginning of World War One, experiencing the same things as people did at the time' - Zoya.