The Evacuees

Staff and pupils at Queen Mary’s are stepping back in time to the Second World War as they stage their latest production for Christmas – “The Evacuees”. And as part of their preparations, pupils at Queen Mary’s School at Baldersby Park near Thirsk have been constructing a replica barrage balloon to add to the atmosphere of the performances.

Director Miss Anthea Shepherdson, explained: “This year we wanted to present something different, and in keeping with the 70th anniversary of the Second World War, decided on “The Evacuees.” It’s a musical written by Chris Adams and Michael Sullivan and tells the story of five evacuee children.

“We’ve got some stunning costumes which have been made and donated to the school. Baldersby Park has a strong war time link as it was used as a base by Canadian airmen,” said Miss Shepherdson.

Some 62 girls are taking part in the production with the main parts taken by Year 6 students.   “The older girls have been particularly interested, as last term they visited the World War Two Museum, Eden Camp near Malton as part of their history studies.”