Show 2025 - 'IKIGAI'

A Celebration of Talent, Passion, and Pure Joy

What an unforgettable experience we all shared at IKIGAI, our most recent production.

Performed at the magnificent Theatre Royal Norwich – undoubtedly the best theatre in Norfolk – this show truly captured the heart and soul of everything ARTS stands for: creativity, dedication, and joyful expression through the performing arts.

From the very first curtain rise to the final applause, IKIGAI was a vibrant celebration of our students’ hard work and passion. Across ballet, tap, modern, disco, contemporary, commercial, musical theatre, and more, the children poured their energy into every step, every lyric, every line — and the results were nothing short of inspiring.

The atmosphere backstage was electric, and it was all made possible thanks to the tireless support of our backstage team, chaperones, and technical crew. The show ran with fluidity, pace, and excitement, keeping our audience completely engaged from beginning to end. Special thanks must go to our incredible technical team, whose dynamic staging and stunning video screen backdrops helped transport us into the very heart of every performance.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the families and friends who support our talented students every step of the way — and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Happy tears flowed freely from proud parents, staff, and the young performers themselves. Their joy was infectious, and their hard work and dedication shone through in every number.

From the amazing costumes to the eclectic and powerful variety of music, every moment of IKIGAI radiated professionalism and creativity. It’s a show we will all remember for a long time. And just when the audience thought they’d seen it all… a surprise twist! A brilliantly original finale introduction, courtesy of Andrew, introduced the crowd to his very own AI-generated “baby” version of himself. This hilarious and cleverly executed moment had both children and adults laughing in delight — the perfect way to close a show that celebrated life, growth, and purpose - IKIGAI.

We are beyond proud of our entire ARTS family. The dedication of the children, the commitment of our staff, and the support of our ARTS community made IKIGAI a production to treasure.

Scroll down to see just some of the stunning images from the show, and don’t miss the heartfelt testimonials from families, students, and audience members who were moved, entertained, and inspired.

IKIGAI wasn’t just a performance — it was an experience. A tribute to the power of young people’s dreams, nurtured through hard work, creativity, and love.

Thank you to everyone who helped bring it to life.