The success just keeps on coming at The Brenda Taylor School!

NOT only has the school just gained another record set of results – with 100% of children gaining an unparalleled ‘Distinction’ – for the RAD ballet and ISTD Modern, Jazz and Tap exams; and the fact that our Callum Hudson landed the role of ‘Eric’ in the West End production of ‘Matilda’; but now there is yet another feather in the cap for the students of Harlow’s longest running Theatre School – and it’s only April!

Seven year old Olivia Cowley, who has been attending the BT school since she was three, has beaten over 3000 girls for a major role in a new West End musical.

A Little Princess based on the story by Frances Hodgson Burnett, has its UK premiere in London on May 28th 2018 at the Festival Hall – accompanied by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Written and conducted by Tony-nominated composer and lyricist Andrew Lippa (Addams Family), with abridged narration by Brian Crawley (Violet) and directed by multiple Olivier Award-winner and Tony Award nominee Arlene Phillips CBE, the story follows ten girls who attend a strict boarding school.

The show has previously been on Broadway and will feature, for the first time ever, children playing the lead roles. Olivia will play ‘Lottie’ – one of four main roles and the youngest member of a company lead by Strictly’s Danny Mac and Sherlock’s Amanda Abbington.

The Brenda Taylor School is absolutely delighted that, not only Olivia, but also Jorjie Wright (aged 8 years), both made it down to the final few children being considered for the child roles; and were thrilled that Olivia eventually gained the part of Lottie – beating all those thousands of children!

Talented Olivia follows in the footsteps of many past students who have performed in the West End and on television and in film. She studies drama and singing, plus all forms of dance at the BT school including ballet, tap, modern and jazz; which will certainly come in handy for this new musical.

As well as beginning a demanding regime of rehearsals this week, she has also featured in Monday’s ‘Evening Standard’ and has other press calls and media engagements to follow – exciting stuff for a seven year old!

Tickets for A Little Princess can be booked through the Southbank Centre, London.

For more information about the Brenda Taylor School and updates about A Little Princess please visit:
www.brendataylorschoolofdance.com

Facebook: The Brenda Taylor School of Dance and Performing Arts

Phone: 01279 420596