Young actors earn national acclaim for Les Miserables (From Warrington Guardian)

Young actors earn national acclaim for Les Miserables

YOUNG actors have double cause for celebration this week after a glowing reception for their hit show in December.

Congleton Amateur Youth Theatre staged six performances of Les Miserables - The School Edition at the Daneside Theatre in Congleton.

The show was a huge hit with audiences, as well as the National Operatic and Dramatic Association.

The company is a member of the association, and David Parkes from the organisation came along to review the production.

His review in the association's magazine describes the show as "a stirring production with which all concerned can be justly proud."

There was more good news for the company, with the show's musical director Ian Pickford being nominated by the association for the best musical direction of the year.

This is the first nomination the youth theatre has earned from the association, and was greeted with delight by company chairman Sue Beech.

"It is absolutely brilliant news, especially for the children, and Ian was over the moon when he heard," said Mrs Beech.

"Ian got the best out of the children involved in the show, who are such a talented group.

"We always do our best, and it is nice to be recognised.

"The show was out of this world, and I had an email from a member of the audience who said it was jaw-dropping."

Mr Parkes described the performances by Craig Young and Tom Sargeant as "masterful," and praised other members of the cast, as well as Mr Pickford and his "fine" orchestra.