Would-be actresses at Adcote School were stunned by a surprise visit from award-winning West End and Broadway musical directors.

What began as an ordinary music lesson for Years 6 and 9 turned into a question and answer session with musicians Joel Fram and Martin Lowe, who both have interstellar reputations on Broadway and in the West End for their contributions to musicals including Pinocchio, Wicked, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

They were also interviewed at length by the sixth form drama students who are studying a professional practice unit, which requires them to engage with professionals in the performing arts sector.

The visit was so successful, there is talk of a return visit next autumn.

Joel said: "It was an absolute pleasure to come and speak to students at Adcote.

"We were incredibly impressed with the level of interest and engagement the girls showed during our time there. They asked perceptive, thoughtful questions - it was clear the teachers have had a major and positive impact on their experience both in terms of the arts - music and drama - and in their ability to think critically in a classroom setting, whether posing or answering questions - a skill that is valuable not just in school or at work, but in life."

Martin added: "We had a wonderful time and were deeply impressed with the level of both teaching and learning.

"We hope we have in some small way inspired the girls to continue exploring the things we care so deeply about - and look forward to the chance to meet the students again in the future!"

Adcote’s choirs and new Glee Club are thriving under the direction of former West End trumpeter Chris Bunn and new Head of Drama Esther Labbé, with scores of talented young actresses and singers determined to make the most of their talents – several of whom already appear regularly in professional Theatre Severn productions.

Adcote is planning a smash hit musical production of Legally Blonde this summer.

Year 12 Drama student Evie Luff said: "Martin and Joel are both incredible, inspirational people. After having spoken with them, I would differently consider working in their industry. Their hard work, expertise and charisma is something we all really looked up to."

Fellow pupil Danielle Allsop added: "They were really insightful and generous, giving us so much information and detail about the struggles and the joys of creating a career in the performance industry."

Ms Labbé commented: "This was an unparalleled opportunity, cherished by students and staff alike. Martin and Joel’s willingness to engage with students and share their expertise, experiences and life lessons allowed for a rare and authentic insight into the Performing Arts Industry on a global scale.

We are incredibly grateful for this experience and will draw on this exchange in many more ways than we anticipated: academically, vocationally and personally.”