Off with Her Head

Off with Her Head

Junior FR have been involved in a project quite different from their usual activities.

It all began last February when a former Junior FR helper discovered a collection of Cinderella costumes in her loft and returned them to the group.

This sparked a flood of wonderful memories from 11 years ago when some of our oldest daughters, now 20, and some of our youngest, took to the stage for the first time to perform a musical version of Roald Dahl’s Cinderella – a dark and humorous retelling of the classic fairy tale.

Remembering how much fun it was the first time around, we wanted to offer this opportunity again to our current group. Only Lily and Elizabeth, who played the rats back then, were part of the original show.

The journey to reach performance day was a long one with its share of challenges, but,

“I can honestly say that my heart is bursting with pride for these incredible girls,”

said Wendy Howse, MD of Junior FR.

Seven songs were learnt in 2-part harmony, some in 3, so the girls could show off their vocal skills, and all the main characters performed solos.

“They all stepped outside their comfort zones—where we know the real magic happens. They’ve pushed their boundaries and tested their performance skills, resulting in soaring confidence and unforgettable memories.”

All the volunteers who give their time each week at Junior FR have an important role to play, from supporting the singing to organising costumes and props, writing harmonies, handling the PR for the show, and supporting in the wings.

“This has been a tremendous team effort. The adult team behind it all have been truly remarkable, and I’d like to thank each and every one of them for their contribution.”

Special recognition goes to Anna Marshall. As a mother of twins, Anna joined JFR just over two years ago to lend a hand when we were short on adult helpers.

She has truly excelled as director of this production. Her knowledge, organisation, and 1-2-1 work with the girls have been remarkable. Her contributions have been invaluable, from managing logistics and enlisting her husband for tech support to securing a grant from Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club and coordinating with Hawkesbury Upton village hall. Anna is a true superstar, and while we’re a team, we couldn’t have done this without her leadership.

Anna said,

“It has been very special to share singing at Junior FR with my girls and all the friends we’ve made there over the last couple of years – it’s been an extra delight this year to bring some of our family’s theatrical experience to the table and to contribute to such a valuable and unusual performance opportunity for all the girls. I’m so proud to have watched them all push their boundaries, embrace the experience, try new things, gain confidence and give brilliant performances under stage conditions that really showed off their talents and their hard work. I’m honoured to be part of such a strong team and also grateful as a parent for how much Wendy and her helpers put into providing opportunities for our girls. We’re all fortunate to have Junior FR.”

With the mention of the Chipping Sodbury Rotary club, thank you on behalf of everyone at Junior FR for contributing to the cost of putting this play on. We are truly grateful.

We’ve had some tremendous feedback:

“What a great production, and thank you for allowing us to watch it, and my son and his best friend twice! We had no idea what to expect, so it was an absolute pleasure to sit back and be entertained for once (I used to be a theatre producer before C19…)”.

Ed from Poppy & Boo

“Just to say, I thought the performance by the girls was excellent; we very much enjoyed it. Just as important, it was clear that the girls enjoyed performing, which was great to see. It was Cinderella, but not as we know it! The prince beheading the ugly sisters was a surprise! At least Cinderella lived happily ever after and would not go short on jam.“

Richard from Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club

“Thank you for giving the girls such precious memories. They are still buzzing.”

Proud Parent.

Here are a few quotes from the Hawkesbury Upton residents who attended:

“That was so brilliant! What talent! Thanks for bringing it to HU xx.”

“Singing was so good. So talented. Loved how much they were enjoying it.”

“So much fun. Thanks for sharing it with us and inviting the village.”

“Wasn’t expecting so much top-quality singing. What a talented bunch.”

Now it’s time for a short break over half term, and then we’ll be back ready to work hard on getting ready for Christmas – Junior FR will be performing at Fascinating Rhythm’s Christmas show on the 14th of December at St Michael’s Centre on Stoke Gifford.

If you weren’t lucky enough to see Cinderella this time, this will be your chance to see a few highlights.

Get your tickets now for the Show Ho Ho’ at