YOUNGSTERS from Dorking and Leatherhead were among the stars who lit up the stage with a truly technicolour performance last week.
More than 50 children from around East Surrey took to the stage at the Harlequin Theatre, Redhill, for five performances of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
The show by Youth East Surrey Operatic Society is put together in just two weeks, with adults directing the cast of youngsters, who rehearse from 9am to 5pm each day for a week and a half before performing in the theatre.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the group – originally an offshoot of East Surrey Operatic Society – which has grown enormously since its inception in 2004.
The show's musical director, Martin Sargeson, said: "The group was originally set up as an opportunity for the children to have the experience of performing as the adults do, in a full production with a stage, band and crew.
"Because of the children's enthusiasm, the project has grown from a small-budget tri-annual event into this annual event which the children come back to year after year."
He added: "It is an extremely busy two weeks but we are lucky we have a dedicated production team.
"I couldn't be prouder of the children, to be honest. The performance was so entertaining and the kids thoroughly deserved their standing ovation."
Youngsters aged 8 to 18 took to the stage for evening shows on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (August 7 to 9) with matinees on the final two days.
The Friday matinee was a special relaxed performance in support of charity Autism All Stars, with some of the lighting and sound cues removed or diminished to make the show more suitable for youngsters with autism.
Mr Sargeson added: "It is an interesting challenge and a brilliant opportunity. The people we have spoken with say with a brand-new event like this there is often anxiety about whether the children will go, but the response we've had has been fantastic and it has sold really well."
Planning is under way for next year's show. For details about the group, visit www.esos.org.uk/youngesos.htm
