From Mayflower youth projects to the orchestra of Miss Saigon

We were delighted to welcome back George Shrapnell, a Mayflower alumnus, as part of the orchestra of Miss Saigon, playing the clarinet, flute and saxophone.

George first appeared on our stage in the 2013 Summer Youth Project, Bugsy Malone, before continuing with further youth projects over subsequent years, performing in both Oliver! and Pirates of Penzance. He even became Assistant Musical Director for several Summer Youth Projects here at Mayflower.

George eventually made the choice to study music at university, where he was supported by our Mayflower Higher Education Tuition Fee Grant. Since then, he has moved to London and created a successful career, now featuring as part of the Miss Saigon orchestra.

Asked what it was like to return to his roots here at Mayflower, George said, “I will always have a place here; it feels like coming home.”