AUDIENCES were taken on a trip back in time to 1920s New York as talented teenagers from St Stephen’s High School put on a dazzling production of Bugsy Malone.

With plenty of twists, turns, gangsters and showgirls, proud parents were left spellbound by the spectacular three-night run.

Taking on the role of Bugsy was third year pupil Jack Vize, who lit up the stage with his performance.

Further star turns came from first year pupil Holly Callaghan, who played Blousey, and Chloe Powell, a second year student who took on the role of Tallulah, made famous by Jodie Foster.

Kevin O’Donoghue, the school’s principal teacher of music, co-directed the show alongside fellow teacher Danny McGarvey. He said the pupils who were involved in the production were ‘a credit to the school’ for their outstanding hard work and professionalism.

He told the Tele: “Over 500 people came along to watch the show over the three nights.

“It was a really fun production and very messy as we used custard pies and lots of silly string.

“Pupils from S1 to S6 and every department in the school were involved.

“It was quite a young cast, although we did have some senior pupils involved, including Hannah Castle, who choreographed the whole show.”

Some of the youngsters also got the chance to play with a professional band which was made up of former students and music instructors.

Mr O’Donoghue says the pupils have gained a great deal from the experience, adding: “There was a Facebook page set up for Bugsy and the pupils have left positive comments, saying they can’t wait until next year’s show. From our perspective, we see the young people’s self esteem and confidence grow, which is great.”