The Worst Witch

by Emma Reeves, Jill Murphy, Luke Potter

Cast: 10f

Synopsis: Mildred Hubble is an ordinary girl who found herself in an extraordinary place: a school for witches. Now in her final year at Miss Cackle's Academy, accident prone Mildred and her fellow pupils embark on their biggest adventure yet… Hailed by WhatsOnStage as ‘a cauldron of delights perfect for a family summer show,’ this play with music is a true crowd-pleaser.

Why it's great for younger performers: A magical, mischievous show with an uplifting message, perfect for groups of all-female performers. A play-within-a-play offers a meta-theatre challenge, and students’ inventiveness will be called upon to bring flying, potion-making and training of witches’ familiars to life.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

by C.S. Lewis, Glyn Robbins

Cast: 5f, 8m

Synopsis: In this inventive stage adaptation of the classic children's novel, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy embark on a fantastical adventure to the Land of Narnia through the wardrobe. Expect mythical creatures, heart-racing chases across wintry lands, highly memorable characters and sudden cliff-hangers – all from within the comfort of your own venue.

Why it's great for younger performers: A versatile show that works equally well as a summer production or a Christmas classic, this will have your students rallying to fight for what's right. Fantastical costumes and props will help bring set pieces to life, encouraging students to use their imaginations.

Robin Hood

by Laura Dockrill, Hugo White, Ned Rudkins-Stow

Cast: 2f, 4m plus ensemble

Synopsis: A hilarious new adaptation of the classic story from acclaimed children's author Laura Dockrill, featuring lively musical arrangements. Robin Hood returns home to find the greedy Sheriff of Nottingham starving the local people of Sherwood Forest. Courageous, kind and headstrong, Robin can't stand by and watch friends and family suffer. Robin, the most skilful archer in the land, vows to be brave and stand up for the local people. Join the fearless, witty hero and a host of lively friends as they set off on a mission to steal from the rich and give to the poor. Expect plenty of laughter, derring-do and live music.

Why it's great for younger performers: This fast-moving play with music offers roles for performers of different ages and abilities, and the score offers a challenge for musical students. Its wit and silliness will win over actors and audiences alike, and the age-old story of Robin Hood offers familiarity for any school's theatre programme.

Skellig

by David Almond

Cast: 4f, 6m

Synopsis: Man, bird or angel? Who, or what, is Skellig? Michael was looking forward to moving house. It was all going to be wonderful. But now his baby sister's ill, his parents are frantic, and Doctor Death has come to call… Then he steps into the crumbling garage. What is this thing beneath the spider webs and dead flies? A human being, or a strange kind of beast never seen before? Adapted from his multi award-winning novel, David Almond's Skellig is a hauntingly beautiful story that will take older students on an emotional and highly imaginative journey.

Why it's great for younger performers: This is a heart-warming, thought-provoking piece that will stimulate inquiring minds and encourage them to ask big questions about the world they live in. With David Almond's novels featured on the curriculum, this play – along with a number of other new releases – offers students the chance to get to know his work through performance.

Fantastic Mr. Fox

by Roald Dahl, David Wood

Cast: Flexible

Synopsis: David Wood's adaptation of Roald Dahl's much-loved story follows the vain attempts of three farmers – Boggis, Bunce and Bean (one fat, one short, one lean) – as they try to get rid of the wily fox who regularly steals food from their farms. Funny, dark and extraordinarily playful, this production will have audiences giggling and gasping by turns.

Why it's great for younger performers: This play offers varied ensemble opportunities, from the foxes and farmers to a whole host of woodland creatures, which means there's something for everyone. Plus, the vivid characters and settings offer the chance for students to get creative with costumes, props and set design. Audience participation can also involve even more of your school – get them to boo Boggis and cheer as Mr. Fox makes a break for it.

Discover many more great plays and musicals for students at www.concordtheatricals.co.uk