A youth theatre group from Morecambe are celebrating a triple award win for their production of a popular musical.
MY (Morecambe Youth) Theatre took home Best Youth Musical at the NODA North West Awards held last weekend, for their 'Matilda Jr' adaptation of the classic 'Matilda'.
Cielle Shoemaker, who played Matilda Wormwood, won Best Leading Female, and Abi Jones, who played Miss Trunchbull, won Best Comedy Performance.
MY Theatre was also nominated in seven other categories.
"To say we were proud doesn’t even come close," said Sophie Butler from MY Theatre.
"We already knew how brilliant these children were, we see it every week in rehearsals, in the laughter, the hard work, and the bonds they build, but to have their talent recognised on such a huge stage was the most beautiful cherry on top of Miss Trunchbull’s chocolate cake.
"One of the most powerful moments of the evening was watching our attendees cheer and support one another, no matter whose name was called. That spirit, that unity, that’s what it’s all about. We were blessed with four girls who shared the role of Matilda and Miss Honey last year, and to see them work so well together and shine so beautifully on stage was incredibly impressive and lovely to witness, proof even more so, of that unity and spirit we share.
Abi Jones is pictured below with her award.
"We are still a young company, just four years in, and Matilda was only our third production. Everything we do is run voluntarily and completely free for the children involved. To stand beside long established companies and come away with honours like this is something we’ll carry with us forever and will never take for granted.
"We’re incredibly proud to represent District 11, and we hope our wins bring joy and pride to our whole community. Those wins came through the voices, stories and talent of our young performers. Their achievements are our collective success in this local am dram world, and we hope they’re celebrated as such when reflecting on this weekend.
"To every family, supporter, and friend who’s been on this journey with us - thank you.
"To our cast - you are the heartbeat of everything we do.
"From your creative team and trustees - our passion and belief in these children means we get to be part of changing lives and that is unbeatable.
"This show, and this night, will stay with us forever.
"Team Matilda – we couldn’t be prouder of you."
Cielle Shoemaker is pictured below with her award.
The NODA North West awards recognise the best in theatre groups from across the UK.
Other nominees locally included:
Morecambe Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (MAODS) for Guys and Dolls
Best Comedy Performance in a Musical - Ashleigh Hartin for Miss Adelaide
Best Musical Director - Joanna Jeffreys
Best Ensemble - Gangster Chorus ‘Sit Down You’re Rocking The Boat’
Morecambe Warblers for Kinky Boots
Best Staging of a Musical - Kinky Boots
Special Achievement Award - Sharon Bell
Lancaster Amateur Dramatic and Operatic Society (LADOS) for Anything Goes
Best Supporting Male Character in a Musical - James Shields for Lord Evelyn Oakleigh
Best Musical - Anything Goes
MY Theatre for Matllda Jnr
Best Director of a Youth Musical - Sophie Butler
Best Musical Director of a Youth Production - Claire Allcock
Best Choreographer of a Youth Musical - Sophie Butler
Best Leading Male Character in a Youth Musical - Arman Sidhu for Mr Wormwood
Best Supporting Female Character in a Youth Musical - Molly Drury for Miss Honey
Best Ensemble in a Youth Musical - School kids
Best Staging of a Youth Musical
Lancaster Red Rose AODS for Sweet Charity
Best Female Lead in a Musical - Shannon Whittle for Charity Hope Valentine
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