The curtain has fallen on Hermitage Academy’s 2022 school show, Sunshine on Leith – and it’s time for a vast team of staff and pupils to enjoy a well-earned rest.

The upbeat show features songs by The Proclaimers and follows three couples as they try to navigate the highs and lows of love, relationships, dreams and ambitions.

Rehearsals began a mere seven weeks before the first of three performances – with an additional performance especially for the P7s from local primary schools.

Now the final bow has been taken and the last note has been sung. But what does it take to produce a full scale performance in a matter of weeks?

According to Musical Director Pamela Frew, it’s all about “commitment, hard work, dedication” and, she notes, the wide pool of talent from across the school community is “vital”.

Each confident, smiling face seen on stage has had to overcome personal fears and anxieties and, whether a principal character or a chorus member, each young person’s dedication brings the whole performance together in a joyful, joyous way. The cast is diverse and inclusive and enables every pupil who wants to take part a chance to shine.

Yet, as those on stage reap the rewards of the audience’s applause, we must not forget the masses of hard work that goes on behind the scenes.

A large technical team needs to be in place to allow the show to run smoothly. Director Gemma MacKinnon, spins a terrifying number of plates as she coordinates the full production and encourages the young people to step outside their comfort zone.

Mrs Frew teaches the cast the musical score and makes sure that each young person sounds their very best. In addition, she conducts the five-piece band of talented pupils, teachers and ex-pupils who bring the music to life.

Colette McEwan provides the piano accompaniment throughout the rehearsal period, while various other committed staff are on hand to pull the myriad strings into a cohesive whole.

Judging by the rousing applause, the blood, sweat and tears seemed to be fully appreciated. The audience comments were endlessly enthusiastic and there were definitely a few tears from proud parents and carers. Back stage the emotion was intense as pupils accepted the end of an incredible period of hard work and achievement.

Seven weeks on and the show is over. Librettos are returned, down come the stage flats and the lights go dark…until next year!