A WEEK-LONG school drama festival has ended with organisers declaring the event a huge success.

About 800 people packed into the Georgian Theatre Royal, in Richmond, last week to see productions by pupils from 13 North Yorkshire schools.

"We have been blown away by the performances of all schools involved," said Richard Jones, head of performing arts at Richmond School, which ran the festival.

"It has far exceeded our expectations and we are delighted with the outcome. North Yorkshire is home to some extremely talented students."

Plays ranged from schools' own work, based on love, to some of Shakespeare's Animated Tales and well-known pieces by Alan Ayckbourn and Bill Owen.

Georgian Theatre Royal spokeswoman Laura Hannaway said: "All schools that took part in this project certainly delivered the goods.

"The audiences were overwhelmed by the pieces of theatre provided."

The success of the pilot festival means the event will now be held annually.

Published: 29/10/2004