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"The piece does a wonderful job evoking those memories and communicating those feelings, of the nerves, excitement and the pay-off of being a young person involved in a musical performance. Director Kate Golledge brings the complex plot together with finesse, and with choreographer Darragh O’Leary they utilise St James’ space; no mean feat with a 27-strong young cast with a decade’s spread of ages to command. The show really is a hearty, enjoyable affair for so many reasons." (Oliver Beatson, Musical Theatre Review, 4*)

"The National Youth Music Theatre's production of Prodigy at London's St James Theatre offers much to celebrate in Britain's musical theatre talent, both in composition and performing......Credit to this show’s creatives – they’ve even managed to throw in a jazz hands showstopper too. Luke Rozanski and Hannah Irvine (14 and 12 respectively and both great violinists) bring the house down with their hilarious younger siblings’ plea.....Darragh O'Leary's choreography remaining a delight throughout, particularly in the impressive ensemble numbers." (Jonathan Baz, 4*)

"A riotous joyful evening.....It’s actually easy to forget that this is a young cast – so grown up, believable and intelligent are their performances that you’d think they’d been doing this professionally for years. It’s impossible to believe that it’s two solid weeks from day one of rehearsals to closing night – how a show this ambitious could be pulled off is astounding, and it’s a credit to director Kate Golledge, choreographer Darragh O’Leary and musical director Candida Caldicot.."  (Oliver Dowdeswell, SosoGay, 5*)

Photography: James Whiteside and Matt Hargreaves