In 1999 my wife was searching for a musical for her school to perform. Most shows on the market were either too expensive or unsuitable for Primary. Those that were suitable and in her price range weren't terribly good. The one she had produced the previous year had had only 3 main roles and was difficult to adapt to the needs of a primary school. So we set about writing our own.

“The Genie and The Picnic” was a very basic show with a simple story, but it gave each grade their own song and provided everyone the opportunity to participate. 8 years on we have written and produced a new show each year, refining our style to include multiple speaking parts for each year level, a large number of main roles whilst adding solos, duets and dance numbers to the music.

It's all about involving as many kids as possible. The grades always choreograph their own songs and the kids are involved with everything from making the props to sound and lighting.

Now the musical is one of the biggest events on the school calendar. The kids look forward to it every year and it is amazing to see the enjoyment they get from it. For many this will be the only chance they get perform on stage in front of an audience.

It's an enormous learning experience and loads of fun.

Isn't that what schools all about?