Lift-off for Lichfield Festival space show

A performance inspired by the last space shuttle launch earlier this month entertained visitors at the 30th Lichfield Festival.

Schools from across the region joined forces to stage the show, called Orbital, after taking part in rehearsals since Easter.

Festival organisers were keen to go outside the city to find their young theatrical stars, selecting pupils from Norton Canes High School in Burntwood, Bishop Walsh Catholic School in Sutton Coldfield, Gentleshaw Primary in Rugeley, Dosthill Community Primary in Tamworth, St Peter's Primary in Stonnall and Richard Clarke First School in Abbots Bromley.

About 100 youngsters were involved in the show which was performed at locations throughout the town – outside the cathedral, in the busy Market Square and in Stonefield Park.

The pupils had been asked to look at the city as though they were alien invaders from space, exploring the city's architecture, streets and parks.

Jennifer Smith, the Festival's learning and participation manager, said: "It was a great day and the children were really excited about performing in different spaces."