Curtain call for show at closure-hit Wakeman School
A school in Shropshire which is set to close next year has issued a rallying call for people to support an event being held to celebrate its life.
The Wakeman School in Shrewsbury is preparing to raise the curtain on its last production The Wiz on November 28 and 29, and headteacher
Karen Moore is urging town residents to support the school. She said: "It will be our last full school production so we are trying to attract large audiences."
The school is due to close because of a Shropshire Council education shake-up.
Bosses said many other events are planned to celebrate the life of the school, but the production later this month will be the last opportunity for a full scale musical.
The Wiz is a version of family favourite The Wizard of Oz, but featuring soul music.
Dozens of school pupils and staff have been busy taking part in rehearsals for the show.
Producers say it has a colourful cast of characters and magical scenery for the audience to enjoy.
Ed Brown, director, said: "The Wiz doesn't disap-point, with its comic one liners and songs that will have you tapping your feet.
"It is a great musical for all the family."
The council's ruling cabinet voted to close the Wakeman School last year.
Parents, pupils and governors fought to keep it open, appealing to the independent Schools Adjudicator.
But their massive protest campaign to save the school failed to change the authority's mind.
Last November, adjudicator Canon Richard Lindley backed the council's decision, meaning the school will close as planned in August 2013.
Performances of The Wiz will be taking place on both nights at 7pm.
Tickets for the show are available from reception at the school.
