A HAT-TRICK of theatrical triumphs makes it official – Taunton’s School’s dramatists are the best in the country.

Not only did Year 11 students’ “thrilling” one-act production of Burn Up secure the National Drama Festivals Association trophy at the 40th British All Winners Final, but it also took the event’s Stage Door Award for audience appreciation.

The remarkable success story began when head of drama and Burn Up director Jane Harris contacted renowned playwright Derek Bowskill to discuss taking on his one-act piece of theatre.

This year has seen cast and crew James Mear, Sam Dunn, Alex Hill, Ollie Lucas, Alistair Kirby and Ricky Parsons also secure the youth, audience and endeavour gongs at the Somerset County Drama Festival, and Burn Up win the Five Counties Festival.

A national final in Teignmouth also won praise with adjudicator Mike Kaiser commending the production for its “extraordinarily good teamwork.”

Taunton School headmaster Dr John Newton said: “Our drama has for many years been first class, but I’m delighted that the quality of this production has been recognised on a national level.”