Two years ago, a Bolton commercial services manager, Carl Wheatley and his best friend, primary school teacher Simon Harthill wrote a children's book.
Now, 'Reggie Rockit', an award-winning tale encouraging children to be themselves, has become a play.
Stagecoach Performing Arts School has adapted it for the stage and put it on with the authors' help.
Proud students in the Canon Slade-based school's six to eight group performed the production for their parents, Carl and Simon on July 6.
Carl said: “It was an absolute joy for myself and Simon to watch the super talented children at Stagecoach Performing Arts Bolton perform a story adaptation of our book.
“There are definitely some future Hollywood stars in the making at Stagecoach.
“We were both so proud to see the children have fun and enjoy themselves as they really brought the story to life.”
Stagecoach Performing Arts School principal Kimberley Riley-Shipperbottom was happy to partner with the authors.
She said: “I would like to say a big thank you to Carl and Simon for giving us the opportunity to adapt their wonderful story into a stage adaptation.
“I was extremely proud of all the children who performed and of all my teachers for their hard work. I am really excited about the future for Stagecoach and Reggie Rockit”.
Children were excited and Greenhalghs Craft Bakery offered Reggie Rockit biscuits on the day.
Sarah Goulding of Greenhalghs said: “I feel honoured that Carl and Simon reached out to me to work together. I love the concept of their story of to be happy by being yourself.
"I can totally resonate with them as part of our foundation we are always looking at positive ways to help children. Therefore, I was pleased to provide Reggie Rockit biscuits for the event, and I am so happy that the children loved them."
Carl hopes the play will grow and theatres will continue to pick it up.
The book, ‘I’m Reggie Rockit’ follows a primary school student who does not believe he is cool because he tried hard at school.
However Reggie plays guitar and sings and is ultimately convinced otherwise.
The book is designed to “show children that you can do well at school and still be cool,” as well as “encourage them into music from an early age.”
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