Where the Lights Dim and the Jazz Begins: Bugsy Malone at BSB

Ladies and gents, gather ’round.

Before the first line was spoken, the atmosphere was already set.

In Bugsy Malone, New York is divided between rival gangs led by Fat Sam and Dandy Dan, whose battles are fought using ‘splurge guns’ that fire silly string instead of bullets. Caught in the middle is Bugsy — observant, composed and drawn into a story of ambition, loyalty and reputation. The BSB Marquee, a familiar space on campus, was transformed into a theatre environment. Lighting, sound, staging and props were carefully integrated to support a live performance, creating a setting that felt immersive and complete from the moment the audience arrived.

Approaching the Marquee, the evening felt different from the usual rhythm of the school day. Warm light spilled across the entrance, where illuminated BSB and BUGSY MALONE letters framed the space, casting a soft glow against the night. Our BSB vintage car stood nearby — a quiet nod to another era — as if the audience was about to step not just into a performance, but into a different time altogether.

Inside, the transformation continued. Strings of lights stretched overhead, the set opening onto a stylised city street — rain-slicked, cinematic, unmistakably reminiscent of 1920s New York. Hints of everyday life appeared across the stage — a barber shop here, a café setting there — alongside carefully placed details that suggested a world just beyond the scene.

And then, the movement began.

Music carried through the space, scenes shifting quickly as characters crossed paths, alliances formed and rivalries unfolded. Dialogue blended with rhythm, choreography with storytelling, creating a pace that felt both playful and precise. Moments of humour were met with bursts of laughter, while quieter scenes held the audience in stillness — a balance that gave the production its distinctive energy.

For three evenings this March, the BSB community stepped into this world of feisty rivals, big dreams and friendships that take shape in the most unexpected places. As the Marquee filled with music, movement and character, the familiar gave way to something more theatrical.

This year, the spotlight turned to sharp suits, quick talk and just a little bit of trouble.

 

The Cast Takes Centre Stage

At the heart of the production stood the students — bringing energy, character and a strong sense of connection to every scene.

The musical brought together pupils from Year 7 to Year 10, each contributing to the world on stage — from lead roles to ensemble performances. Over months of rehearsals, what emerged was not only a performance, but a cast that developed confidence, adaptability and a genuine sense of belonging.

For many, the experience went far beyond the stage. As Delilah, who played Bugsy Malone, shares, “you don’t have to be a main character to get involved… You build great, lasting friendships and amazing memories!” That sense of inclusivity was echoed across the cast, where collaboration became just as important as performance.

Sara, performing as Blousey, describes the group as “very supportive… like a little family,” while also highlighting the personal growth that comes with performing: “ I love singing on the stage as it makes me feel confident and I like that I was picked to show a crowd of people my talent.”

Students also approached their roles with depth and intention. Eva, in the role of Fat Sam, explains how preparation involved carefully building the character: “I came up with a list of characteristics… and incorporated as many of them as possible in my performance,” adding that the process reinforced an important lesson — “hard work pays off.”

For others, the production was an opportunity to step outside their comfort zone. Lucy, playing Fizzy, shared that this year felt different, as it was the first time she took on a male character, while Clara, as Tallulah, reflects on how the experience strengthened her stage presence: “My confidence on stage has improved… because I play such a self-assured and confident character that it’s helped me feel more comfortable on stage.”

Across the ensemble, the experience brought people together in unexpected ways. Emilia highlights one of the defining aspects of the production: “I can meet and become good friends with so many nice people that I wouldn’t have otherwise met… there is always something for everyone, no matter your abilities.”

This shared experience — of challenge, growth and connection — translated naturally onto the stage, shaping a performance that felt both cohesive and authentic.

 

What About That Jazz?

Behind the scenes, the production was shaped by months of steady commitment and musical development. Rehearsals began as early as September, building gradually through weekly sessions and additional weekend rehearsals.

As Musical Director Lynne Sharp explains, “We rehearse on a weekly basis from the beginning of September. We also did some Saturday rehearsals to ensure we were ready for the event.”

To further prepare the students, the band took on additional performance opportunities, including the Rock concert in January, helping them gain confidence ahead of show week.

Working with a live band brought both energy and complexity. For many students, it meant stepping into a new musical environment — one that blends different styles and demands adaptability.
“It takes a while to get used to the experience, as the music is sometimes challenging, with complex chords and rhythms to handle,” Lynne notes.

By the time show week arrived, what stood out was not only the musical progress, but the students’ mindset — their ability to remain focused, flexible and composed in a live setting.
“Students needed to be flexible, focused and calm… the band worked hard to prepare for every eventuality. It really helped that everyone was very supportive of each other and we felt like a small family by the end of the week.”

 

Dressed for the Part

Costume played a key role in defining the world of Bugsy Malone, helping each character feel distinct while supporting the fast pace of the production.

Liana Stănuși, Costume Manager and Assistant Director, explains that the process began with research and visual exploration. Balancing creativity with practicality was essential. With a large cast and quick transitions, small details made a significant difference. As rehearsals progressed, costumes became an integral part of performance.

“I started by working with mood boards and researching previous productions to help shape the overall concept. From there, I had to balance creative ideas with what was realistic and feasible.

We also had to think practically, so when students had a lot of different roles and quick changes, a blazer or a different hat would be the deciding detail between one character and the next.

Once we started rehearsing in costume, the actors got a lot more comfortable in what they were wearing and the accessories began to feel like part of the character rather than something extra.”

 

Final Curtain…

At the British School of Bucharest, school productions are part of the rhythm of school life. Each year brings a new story, a new cast and a new opportunity for pupils to explore performance, collaboration and creativity. From the energy of School of Rock to the atmosphere of Sister Act, each production adds to a growing tradition of musical theatre.

As the final scene came to an end, the result reflected months of preparation, coordination and shared effort.
  

A jazz-filled night. Sharp suits. Big dreams.
Fast moves, bold voices — and just enough mischief to keep things interesting.
That’s Bugsy Malone. BSB style.