As NSTA representatives, we were delighted to attend the Gordon’s School production of Amélie on Monday 26th and Tuesday 27th January 2026. Known for its imaginative theatricality, integral musical score, and focus on connection, Gordon’s School production of Amélie saw these young performers bring Paris to life with nuance and charm.
Amélie is a whimsical, romantic musical based on the 2001 French film of the same name, centred on a young woman who has spent much of her life in her own imaginative world following a lonely childhood. The show features music by Daniel Messé, lyrics by Messé & Nathan Tysen, and a book by Craig Lucas. Living in Paris, Amélie begins quietly improving the lives of those around her after discovering a hidden box of childhood treasures. Her secret acts of kindness eventually lead her to Nino, a quirky stranger who sparks her first real chance at love. The show originally ran on Broadway in 2017 and in the West End in 2019. It was nominated for three awards at the 2020 Laurence Olivier Awards: Best New Musical, Best Original Score or New Orchestrations, and Best Actress in a Musical.
From the moment the audience entered the theatre, they were immersed in the setting, with recorded French ambient music playing alongside the intricately designed set, immediately establishing the tone. The opening number, ‘The Flight of the Blue Fly’, was beautifully choreographed and performed, leaving the audience enraptured. Clear direction from Robbie Olden ensured that the energy and enthusiasm of the ensemble shone through, with no false moments. Every scene was delivered with skill and precision. This musical was a highly professional piece of theatre, from the excellent lighting design to the colourful costumes by Ruth Ahmed. The costume design, which linked character traits to specific colours, was particularly effective.
Act One of Amélie unfolded with warmth and wit, drawing the audience instantly into Amélie’s imaginative world. The pupils brought the quirky Parisian setting to life through confident storytelling, expressive performances, and charming musical numbers that showcased both talent and teamwork. From the fantastical childhood scenes, to Amélie’s decision to quietly brighten the lives of others, the cast delivered the narrative with clarity and heart. By the end of the act, it was clear that this production was not just well rehearsed, but something truly special.
The acting on display was mesmerising. The titular role, played by Kate, was flawless, delivering a captivating and nuanced performance as Amélie. Her energy and commitment showcased impressive skill and range, while her singing was equally strong, with ‘Times Are Hard for Dreamers’ a particular highlight. Nino, played with charm and sensitivity by Elliot, provided a wonderful counterpart, and their first meeting was genuinely touching. The build-up to this moment was expertly crafted, and the chemistry between them was palpable.
The ensemble worked beautifully together, particularly in the group numbers, where their voices blended confidently. Thoughtful character choices added depth, and the cast clearly had command of their roles, helping to drive the narrative and fully realise the world of Amélie. Andrew, as Hipolito, brought a compelling mix of humour and melancholy. Gina, played by Jessica, offered warmth and confidence, providing a steady presence that balanced the more eccentric characters. Emilia, who played Suzanne, was another standout, delivering warmth and nuance throughout. There were also several excellent comic moments, notably Nathanial as Lucien, whose rendition of ‘Three Figs’ was superb, as well as the Elton John-esque ‘Goodbye Amélie’. This number perfectly encapsulated the production’s success, combining mesmerising costumes, excellent direction, and a confident ensemble performance delivered with gusto and skill.
Amélie was further elevated by the outstanding work of musical director Adam Stanworth and the orchestra, whose precision and sensitivity brought the score vividly to life. The orchestra played with clarity and nuance, capturing both the lightness and emotional depth of the music without overpowering the performers on stage. Their unified interpretation created a rich sonic backdrop that enhanced the storytelling and added a professional polish throughout.
The creative lighting design by James added a distinctive and atmospheric layer to the production, capturing the show’s playful charm with impressive maturity. Thoughtful colour choices and subtle shifts in intensity helped define Amélie’s imaginative inner world, while carefully crafted spotlights and shadows guided the audience’s focus with confidence. Moments of warmth, secrecy, and whimsy were supported by clever lighting cues that enriched the storytelling without overwhelming it. The result was a visually cohesive and expressive design that elevated the production and showcased strong artistic sensitivity and technical skill.This school production of Amélie was a heartfelt and beautifully crafted triumph, filled with imagination, care, and genuine artistry. The cast delivered engaging and nuanced performances, supported by thoughtful direction and a strong visual identity that captured the show’s quirky charm. With the musical director and orchestra providing such a warm and polished foundation, every scene felt vibrant and full of life. It was a performance that not only entertained, but also reflected the dedication and talent of everyone involved, making it a joyful and memorable achievement.