MORE than 50 youngsters took to the stage to perform Oliver! to a full house at Braintree Arts Theatre.

The Stagecoach Braintree actors wowed the crowds with their foot-tapping version of the classic musical which they put on as their end of term production.

Stagecoach principal Julie Berridge said: “The students have worked really hard this term. I think they were inspired by the well-known songs, but they all really got into the spirit of the show.

“With a full school we have to rewrite the show to ensure everyone has plenty to do, but all of the children had dance routines and plenty of songs to learn. It really has been a fun term.

“We even created a cameo appearance for our younger students. They made a special appearance as police officers, Kung Fu Pandas and secret ninjas. I’ll bet we’re the only theatre school that has put on Oliver! with Kung Fu fighting in it!”