Twickenham School are celebrating the success of their recent production of Annie Junior. 

The show, which took place in November, starred identical twins Kaya and Tamzin as Annie. 

Nub News caught up with Kaya and Tamzin to talk about the show and their experience playing Annie. 

Both girls said that they love singing dancing and acting and wanted to audition because they grew up watching the 2014 film version of Annie. 

Tamzin said: "The thing I enjoyed most about performing is at the end when you're tired out and you hear a massive wave of clapping and cheering.  

"It just makes you feel good about everything you have done.  

"In contrast, the feeling at the beginning is nice as well because you have all these nerves about going on stage, but you say your first or second line and you really get into your character!" 

Tamzin as Annie. (Photo Credit: Twickenham School).

advertisement

Kaya said that her favourite thing about performing is the rush of energy she gets: "My favourite thing about performing had to be the rush of energy I get at the start and the end. When I first go on stage, I get tingles all over my body and my stomach is full of butterflies, so I learn to embrace that feeling to stop me from being scared and make me love that part.  

"At the end of the show I have another rush of energy and I can't stop smiling as everyone cheers for us with whoops and whistles. Sometimes, when I came off stage, my jaw hurt from smiling so much!" 

As it was a school production the cast had to fit rehearsing around their studies. 

Tamzin said: "I was lucky with the timing of everything.  

"We received our parts in July so we both decided to learn as many lines in the summer term as possible." 

She added: "That really helped us but with all the acting and dancing we practiced like any other homework and most of the teachers gave us a little extra time just because of the production! 

Kaya as Annie. (Photo Credit: Twickenham School).

Kaya said that during her time as Annie she learned that whatever happens you must keep going. 

advertisement

She said: "I remember I stopped in the middle of the stage and forgot what to sing!  

"Fortunately, Mr Grantham (on the Piano) helped me through the song, and I must've sung it the best I have ever done." 

Kaya and Tamzin both said that they feel like the story of Annie has resonance in todays society. 

Kaya said: "Annie is about a little girl trying to find her place in the world, having to defend and look out for herself while caring for others.  

"Although the moral of the story is to always have optimism no matter the circumstance." 

Tamzin said: "I think there is a connection to everyday life because Annie has faced a lot in her lifetime with all the abuse from Miss Hannigan, but no matter what she was her happy self, and she always brought happiness to others.  

"She reminds everyone to do the same with whatever is thrown at you." 

The Headteacher of Twickenham School, Jonathon Lisseman, said: "The remarkable talent and dedication displayed by the cast and crew resulted in extraordinary performances.  

"It was a blend of comedy, emotional depth, and heartwarming moments that left the audience in awe. The acting, singing and dancing as well as the incredible stage production was truly just exceptional.  

He added: "A huge thank you to our amazing staff team whose dedication allows our children to be better than they even thought possible! Three cheers for Ms. Green, Ms. Thackeray, Mr. Grantham, Ms. Gunning, Ms. Charlton, Ms. Sheldrick, Mr. Tranter, Mr. Chanter & Ms Arnold, alongside the whole site team."