Highfields Students Enjoy Sylvia at Birmingham Hippodrome

Students from Highfields School had a fantastic opportunity to visit Birmingham Hippodrome to experience the acclaimed musical Sylvia, starring former Highfields student Beverley Knight in her Olivier Award-winning role as Emmeline Pankhurst.

Written, directed and choreographed by Kate Prince, Sylvia tells the story of activist Sylvia Pankhurst and her role in the campaign for women’s suffrage. The production also explores her commitment to working-class communities and those whose voices were often overlooked. Combining powerful dance with an energetic soundtrack of hip hop, funk and soul, the musical brings an important chapter of British history to life in a vibrant and engaging way.

The experience was made even more special by a backstage question-and-answer session with Beverley Knight herself, giving students the chance to hear directly from the acclaimed performer about her role and experience in the production.

Students were also joined by another former Highfields student, Lewis Francis, who works as an assistant stage manager on the show. Meeting two former students working in the theatre industry provided an inspiring insight into the range of opportunities available within the performing arts.

The visit was a memorable experience for our students, combining history, music and storytelling while showcasing the talent and dedication involved in bringing a major theatre production to the stage. We hope it has inspired a lasting enthusiasm for live theatre and encouraged students to explore the many possibilities within the creative industries.