Children of Symondsbury Primary School last week performed one-act opera Noye's Fludde, written by the British composer Benjamin Britten, intended primarily for amateur performers and particularly children.

First performed in 1958 at the Aldeburgh Festival, it is based on the 15th century Chester mystery or miracle play, which recounts the Old Testament story of Noah's Ark.

Britten specified that the opera should be staged in churches or large halls, not in a theatre, and this performance was held at St Swithun's Church in Bridport.

The Mayor of Bridport, Cllr Ian Bark, was among those to attend the performance and commented: "I have seen Noye's Fludde performed several times and was once even involved in the design of the set. The performance on Wednesday evening was undoubtedly the best I have seen.

"Originally scheduled to take place in 2020, the production was the brainchild of Ruth Wakefield and Matthew Kingston, whose recent choral album, Requiem, was chosen as Classic FM's Album of the Week.

"On the night, conductor Matthew was joined by professional singers Andrew Thompson and Martha McLorinan, who performed the parts of Mr and Mrs Noye, and David Alcock as God.

"Noah's children and the animals, including the raven and dove, were performed brilliantly by children from Symondsbury school. I was particularly taken by the animal faces that adorned the children's heads.

"A group of 'gossips' of varying ages, plus members of the Broadoak Choir, made up the remainder of the singing ensemble. The music was provided by a string quintet, descant and treble recorders, bugles, organ, piano and percussion.

"Whilst the storm raged some of the youngest children at Symondsbury school performed a dramatic dance that included to rippling of blue fabric to simulate the raging firmament. When the storm finally abated a rainbow dramatically appeared over the audience.

"All in all it was a true community production and incredible opportunity for the children. The school took every opportunity to involve the children in the creation of props and costumes, and other performers and back-stage volunteers offered their time for free.

"The end result was an absolutely spellbinding performance that will certainly live long in my memory."