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An original pantomime was brought together using video conferencing.

Students at Burnt Mill Academy rehearsed and performed this year’s Christmas show, Santagirl, separately on Microsoft Teams calls.

The action-packed production – a spoof of Superman – included illustrations voiced over by students, with speeches and songs performed to camera.

Phil Watson, head of performing arts, said: “We have kept students creative without increasing social contacts by creating an original pantomime film rehearsed and performed using video conferencing.

“The show includes music performed by students, dance routines and even an attempt at audience participation.

“Year after year, Burnt Mill students have given extraordinary amounts of time and energy to school performances and been brave enough to step out in front of an audience and show what they can do. We didn’t want this year to be any different and putting together a show online has been an opportunity to think differently about what we do and learn a whole new set of skills.”

Olivia Ioannou, who plays Santagirl, said: “As a Year 11 student, I was really upset when the summer show was unable to go ahead due to lockdown. I knew I wouldn’t have many more opportunities to take part in the arts at Burnt Mill, so when the pantomime came along, I was so excited.

“Getting involved in the performance and feeling the magic of the arts is something I have missed dearly over the year and will miss once I leave in the summer.

“Learning the songs and delivering the lines - while differently than usual - made me feel that same joy that all the productions here bring, despite this year being so different than normal. This pantomime has been a pleasure to be a part of.”