Performers across Europe and Asia participated in ABRSM’s song competition in celebration of World Theatre Day. Launched on 27 March, the competition invited participants to submit a video singing “Pure Imagination” from “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” to win musical theatre repertoire books.

Throughout a two-week period, 36 talented singers of all ages entered the competition. In their recordings, performers were seen dressed up as Willy Wonka, duetting with a parrot and sheltering under an umbrella from a shower of sweets … pure imagination and creativity in various forms.

Marissa from ABRSM who helped organise the competition, said “Pure Imagination is a beautiful piece featured on our Singing for Musical Theatre syllabus. It is all about the power of imagination, which is important when you learn and perform musical theatre songs.”

Jenna, one of the earliest participants to submit her video, said “I extremely enjoyed recording the piece!” The competition was also well received by parents. Stefani, mother of another performer, shared her thoughts “Tilly thoroughly enjoyed this - a great initiative as music has been so important in these times.”

The participants’ footage has now been edited into a montage video and is available to watch on ABRSM’s social media and YouTube channel.