Children attending the Helen O’Grady Academy had the opportunity to showcase their talents during a soirée of punchy performances for parents and friends.

The younger children retold one of Aesop’s better-known moral lessons in a colourful rendition of the Grasshopper And the Ants, highlighting the virtues of hard work and planning for the future. This was followed by another Aesop favourite, The Hare and the Tortoise.

Students attending St Dorothy’s School and Mellieha Primary performed Tray Chic, which takes place in a high-end French restaurant. Pierre, the chef is noted for his fine food – and his bad temper.

Upper primary students worked on an energetic piece called Fancy That: Gloria Van De Bergen’s annual fancy dress ball starts off well enough with some fabulous costumes, but things take a turn for the worse three aliens turn up at the door.

During a short welcome address to the 300-strong audience, principal Alan Montanaro, explained that although not a talent school, the academy recognises the importance of performance as a tool to promote confidence.

“Throughout the year we focus on building children’s confidence and self-esteem as well as their communicative abilities and creative talents. An end-of-year performance allows the children to tie it all together and showcase what they’ve learned.”

For more information call 2146 5928 or 7964 7239 or e-mail alan@helenogradymalta.com.