AN eager audience of over 400 took their seats to enjoy pirate pandemonium in Malvern St James’ prep department production of Treasure Island.

For the performance, MSJ's imposing York Hall was enveloped in the warm glow of the tropical High Seas and the infectious antics of the sea-faring cast, including Long John Silver, played by Anieshka King, and Jim Hawkins, played by Lola Simpkin.

Every girl from reception through to Year 6 was involved in the performance.

Older girls from years 5 and 6 took the lead roles while younger girls from reception to Year 4 formed a rousing chorus of pirates, sailors, sharks and coconuts.

Daisy Richards, who played Doctor Livesey, said: "Everyone played their part properly.

"It was very funny and everyone did incredibly well.

"I can’t wait to see what they do next year!”

MSJ’s headmistress, Patricia Woodhouse, said: “It may have been a bleak and dismal evening outside, but inside, the girls’ energy and exuberance set the stage alight.

"This was a unique and witty performance of Treasure Island, beautifully crafted and staged, and adeptly adapted from the original by our own Sarah Dart. "Every girl was involved, and I am immensely proud of their dedication, concentration and energy, including our very youngest ones.

“They have been working on the play for some time and have relished the challenge of immersing themselves in their characters and learning about producing a full stage-set with scenery, props, sound and lighting.

"We believe it’s never too early for girls to explore the Dramatic Arts and, as expected, they carried themselves with aplomb.”