Forres Town Hall is hosting Highland Youth Theatre’s latest production Fame Jr

Teenage actors are set to wow audiences for the third time in three years with a brand new production of a dramatic tale.

Following sell-out performances of ‘Grease’ in 2023 and ‘Legally Blonde’ last year, Highland Youth Theatre (HYT) seniors are performing ‘Fame Jr’ at Forres Town Hall from June 5-7 at 7.30pm each night.

The creative team - director Gillian Murdoch, musical director Matthew Hamilton and choreographer Jessica Nicol - promise to deliver “the energy, emotion, and excellence audiences expect from HYT seniors”.

Gillian said: “The buzz after Grease was fantastic as we transformed the town hall into a lively 1960’s diner, whilst last year we took everyone to ‘Harvard Law’ in Legally Blonde!

“Forres Town Hall is such a beautiful venue and we love filling its stage with local youths performing on their own doorsteps!”

This year’s show features 29 performers aged 14–18, bringing to life a story of ambition, friendship, and determination set in New York City’s High School for the Performing Arts.

Fame is based on the 1980 musical film of the same name which was followed by a six-season television series. The musical tells the story of several students who attend the school, among them fame-obsessed Carmen, ambitious actress Serena, wisecracking comedian/bad boy Joe, quiet violinist Schlomo, talented dancer Tyrone, determined actor Nick, overweight dancer Mabel, and serious dancer, Iris, from a poor family.

“Fame has great music, is fast paced and is full of youthful energy,” said Gillian. “We hope to excite audiences young and old. Some may remember dancing to the soundtrack as teenagers; it will be a brand new story for others.

“The script allows lots of young people to take on lead roles. We knew our young people would connect with that world as many are already dreaming of following the performing arts path.”

She added: “Also, young people playing young people is really exciting to watch as they can connect to their own experiences!”

The cast come from all over Moray but there are six young actors from the Forres area performing, including lead characters Jessica Davies (S4) as ballet teacher Ms Bell; Mia Carroll (S4) as Mabel Washington; Phoebe Dennis (S4) as passionate drama teacher Ms Myers; and Euan Gray (S6) as Schlomo Metzenbaum.

After casting the show in November, HYT rehearsed for two hours-a-week at Moray Sports Centre in Elgin on Saturday afternoons. Later, they added Thursdays to the schedule in the run up to the show.

“Our cast has poured their hearts into this production,” said Gillian. “The level of talent, commitment, and professionalism they’ve shown is incredible and we’re thrilled to share it with the public.”

She finished: “Fame is packed with unforgettable songs, vibrant characters and an inspiring message about following dreams when courage and creativity collide.

“Forres folk always support our productions, giving our young people brilliant audiences. It’s fantastic to bring young talent to the stage for everyone again.”

Tickets are available via https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/highland-youth-theatre