Stars of the future demonstrated their considerable talent and received a pat on the back for their efforts at a special Oscars night.

The performing arts students from Ormiston Sudbury Academy put on a show at the New Wolsey Theatre, in Ipswich, encompassing musical theatre, dance, drama and music.

The varied programme included a medley of tracks from the academy’s hit production, We Will Rock You, dance routines inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean and The Lion King, acting performances written by the students based on an anti-bullying message, and well-known numbers from the musicals Matilda and The Sound of Music.

After the show, awards were handed out to those who had displayed exceptional skill, dedication and promise in their chosen discipline.

This included ‘best solo performance’ and ‘most outstanding choreography’ in the dance category, ‘most promising drama newcomer’ and ‘best sound engineer’.

The academy – formerly Sudbury Upper School – is known for its high standards in the performing arts. Head of department, Leo Cox, spoke of the success of BTEC students, who this year all achieved A* to C grades in their final exams, with more than half attaining A or A* grades.

He said: “The students have all worked exceptionally hard and we have just achieved our best ever results. The Oscars night gives them a chance to showcase their best performances from the past year in a professional theatre setting.” The Oscars were handed out by Ormiston Trust chairman Peter Murray.