Garelochhead youths create and star in Christmas musical

Members of Route 81 performed their original production ‘Ziggy’s Christmas Tale’ to a sold-out crowd in their hub Centre 81 on Sunday, December 17.

The young people had fun on stage (Image: Route 81)

A total of 10 young people contributed over 400 volunteer hours as they took part in designing a script, learning lines, attending filming workshops and rehearsals, making costumes and props.

Michelle MacDonald, co-ordinator of Route 81, said: “When the young people approached me with their idea for a musical, if I am honest, I was terrified.

“With no previous experience in this area, I was totally out my comfort zone.

The planning process in action (Image: Route 81)

“Route 81 is a young person-led project with the aim of encouraging young people to realise their potential.

“In actual fact, this project helped us all, both young and old, to realise our potential.”

Ziggy loved the spotlight (Image: Route 81)

The musical told the story of a group of elves who are helped by Centre 81 mascot Ziggy the Zebra to save Christmas after the evil Sugarplum Sorceress puts a spell on Santa, cancelling the holiday.

Napier University film graduates Iona and Scott volunteered to help the young people write the script and provided film workshops.

They also helped create the films and power points that were used in the final performance.

The members took to the streets to film segments for the stage show (Image: Route 81)

Michelle added: “Teamwork was strong, and in particular we were all really grateful to Iona and Scott who dedicated so much of their time to support us.

“Over the weeks, the young people grew and grew in confidence, and their commitment was outstanding. It was a real privilege to see this happen.”

The young people took a leading role in the production process (Image: Route 81)

The idea for the musical was created by four of the group’s members just six weeks before it hit the stage.

Through the short but fun process of making the musical, the young people grew in confidence.

Scott helps the members film (Image: Route 81)

Evie who played the Sugarplum Sorceress said: “I have got out the house and got more confident doing this musical.

“I never thought it would be possible for this all to happen since it was just an idea.”

Everyone got in the Christmas spirit (Image: Route 81)

Sarah, who played Kringle the Elf, said: “I’ve enjoyed this experience. It’s been a lot of hard work, but it paid off.

“I feel like I have overcome my stage fright by doing this.”

Group members stand outside Centre 81 (Image: Route 81)

Entry to the show was free, with attendees required to provide a donation to the Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank.

Route 81 participates in the national Saltire Volunteer Awards offered through the Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface.

Members learned how to film (Image: Route 81)

The young people achieved a minimum of a Saltire 25 hours for their efforts, with several achieving 50 hours.

The group provides a space for young people in the catchment area of Hermitage Academy aged between 11 and 17 to socialise and take part in activities and trips.

For more information, visit www.project81.co.uk