HUNDREDS of young people acted, danced and sang in a spectacular showcase of talent.

More than 200 students from Ariel’s drama academy in Burgess Hill showed off their talent at the annual showcase put on by the drama school with nearly 40 acts performing at The Hawth theatre in Crawley.

The students, aged from four to 19, performed their hearts out in contemporary edgy drama pieces and comedic, heart-warming numbers.

Musical theatre performances were delivered from musicals Tommy, School of Rock, Billy Elliot and Matilda.

A piece created by Ariel director Nicci Hopson about the Hillsborough disaster and performed by the oldest students was thought-provoking and delivered with sensitivity and impact, making a deep impression on the audience.

The dance pieces had something for everyone, from the uplifting and full-of-fun Austin Powers theme tune, Soul Bosa Nova, to a colourful rendition of a number called African Celebration, full of energy and movement.

The choreography in Eleanor Rigby and a modern dance number, was precise and tight, demonstrating considerable dance technique.

The students’ love of song was clear to all and vocal highlights included gospel standard Down by the River with its incredible harmonies.

A specially arranged version of Bridge over Troubled Water gave many students the chance to sing solo whilst Owl City’s Fireflies joined students of all ages.

Performed in dim lighting, the smallest students’ hands were covered with UV paint to portray the tiny glowing insects.

Ariel was delighted to have its patron, actor and West End director Nigel Harman, in the audience along with newly-appointed Burgess Hill town mayor Jacquie Landriani.

Mr Harman said: “It was a great night at the theatre.

“From the tiniest of four- year-olds, to the accomplished professionalism of the older students, the evening was awash with bold and brilliant performances.

“From thought provoking drama pieces, through contemporary dance, to show stopping musical theatre, there was barely a moment to catch your breath.

“What I was most proud of however, was the extraordinary organisation backstage combined with a true sense of heart and deep enjoyment onstage.

“It’s a rare combination and one that, as patron, I am so proud to be a part of.”

Mrs Landriani added: “Congratulations to everyone involved in the production which was seen by a sell-out audience.

“I was blown away by the talent on display and the obvious enthusiasm for performing by everyone involved.

“Burgess Hill clearly has a lot of talent.”