SCHOOL is full of drama in the latest production from KYDZ Keighley Youth Theatre.

The Oakworth-based group will next month stage a double bill of plays-with-music set in contrasting schools. Black & White and Seeing Stars both focus on students facing bullying from staff or the ‘mean girls’ who rule their schools, but the outcomes are very different.

Black & White is set in a Catholic girls’ school where a teacher faces suspension after falling pregnant to another staff member. The action of the ruthless head sparks a rebellion from the teachers and students.

Seeing Stars is set in a rundown comprehensive where an enthusiastic new student befriends a quiet girl who has been suffering at the hands of the bullies for years. The new girl’s energy and optimism encourages pupils to stand up to pre-teen terror Marigold, but there could be tragic consequences.

As usual the plays are written, directed and choreographed by KYDZ leaders and older members. They will be performed by a cast of 24 youngsters, aged from nine to 18, at Oakworth Methodist Church on Thursday and Friday, July 18 and 19, at 7.15pm.

KYDZ Keighley Youth Theatre was established more than a decade ago for members of Holycroft Youth Theatre (HYT) after the 30-year-old group was disbanded. Based in Oakworth since then, KYDZ now presents three shows a year including a full-length musical and a concert.

The group this month took part in a cabaret evening to raise money for the Methodist Church’s improvement work. Visit kydztheatre.co.uk to book tickets or to enquire about membership.