STUDENTS from Chepstow School will be performing The Phantom of the Opera this week.

The cast, orchestra and production team, made up of students from across the school, have been working since September to put on the production, to be staged tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday. which will be presented on February 18, 19 and 20.

Rhidian Phillips, the school’s head of drama, said: “Rehearsals have been going very well and everyone just can’t wait until opening night.”

The show’s set has been created with the help of former pupil Tim Lewis, and Mr Phillips and Simon Hendry, the school’s head of music, have helped co-ordinate the performance.

Other staff have helped with costumes and the set and the school has also benefited from West End experience. The cast was visited by former Phantom Peter Karrie at the start of their autumn rehearsals.

Mr Karrie , who has twice been voted favourite Phantom by The Phantom of the Opera Appreciation Society in 1994 and 1995, has lent student Christian Andrews the costume he wore when he was playing the role in the West End.

Christine will be played by Tiri Budd, James Evans will be Raoul, Christian Dixon will play Carlotta and Piangi will be played by Colin Dick. Andre will be played by Matt Miles, Ashleigh Fenton will play Madame Firmin, Caitlin Walsh will be Meg Giry and Madame Giry will be played by Jessica James.