Two Royal High School Bath students, Louisa from Year 8 and Jo from Year 7, have taken on roles in Bath’s panto season this winter, showcasing the confidence and creativity they’ve developed through the school’s vibrant performing arts community.

Louisa recently completed her fourth Theatre Royal Bath pantomime, The Further Adventures of Peter Pan, which finished its run last weekend. She performed as a Babybell fairy and also appeared as young Wendy in a magical solo scene with Peter Pan. “It felt really magical,” she said. “The applause and cheering make me feel proud and excited.”

Meanwhile, Jo is preparing to begin her role as a cat and one of the rats in Bath Drama’s Dick Whittington at the Rondo Theatre. She has embraced the challenge of a more acting‑focused role, sharing, “It puts pressure on you, but a good amount of pressure,” and especially enjoyed the lively choreographed scenes.

Both students credit Royal High School Bath with helping them grow as performers and as people.

Louisa has taken part in numerous school productions, from Cinderella to The Aristocats to Dare to Dream. She says these opportunities have given her confidence and a sense of belonging: “Being part of a large cast is brilliant because you make so many new friends… there is a real feeling of being part of a family. It has given me the confidence to be myself and I’m not afraid to speak in front of large groups of people.”

Jo echoes this sentiment. She performed in Oliver! at school and says the support from friends and teachers has been invaluable: “Some of my friends have helped me build up confidence.” She also highlights the positive community at Royal High, describing teachers as “always there for you.”

Royal High’s Head of Drama, Leanne Vincent‑Norgate, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Louisa and Jo. What matters most is their enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to challenge themselves. Seeing students take the skills they’ve developed at school and apply them in a professional theatre environment is always inspiring. Experiences like these help young performers grow in confidence, and we’re delighted to support them on that journey.”

Tickets are still available for Bath Drama’s Dick Whittington, running from the 15th–18th at the Rondo Theatre.

Tickets are still available for the Bath Drama production of Dick Whittington running from the 15th-18th at the Rondo Theatre.