The unveiling of a new work is always fascinating, and David V Goliath, a rock musical based on the Biblical story, certainly didn’t disappoint. Written by brothers Aldie and Sandy Chalmers, with a libretto by Lee Wyatt-Buchan, this is a thrilling, action-pieced piece that has you tapping your feet to the catchy tunes and rhythms from start to finish. But the show has a serious purpose, with an anti-bullying message that has strong resonances in today’s society.

Guitar-mad shepherd boy David learns that he has been chosen to take over from Saul as king, and much of the show is concerned with his struggle to accept his new responsibility. Meanwhile, local ‘hoody’ Goliath objects to the elevation of a mere shepherd to such an exalted state, and is out for revenge.

The cast were mostly from the Stagecoach School in Witney, and it was wonderful to see young talent blossoming. On Friday night, Edd Birchmore gave a sensitive portrayal of the beleaguered David, drawing sympathy from the audience as he battled the bullies and overcame his reluctance to take on the role of king.

Fraser Logue was equally impressive as Goliath, allowing us clearly to see the two sides of this character – Goliath the bully and Goliath the victim.

Lucy Wallis sang and acted robustly as the Black Sheep, who acts as David’s guardian angel, while Rob Gorton’s larger-than-life Saul drew some of the biggest laughs of the night.

The chorus – playing sheep, David’s brothers, Goliath’s gang of hoodies or Saul’s wives – provided solid back-up, and the ensemble playing was one of the most impressive things about this production, with some slick, well-rehearsed choreography (created by 15-year-old Jazz Kinch) and mature, confident performances all round.

The creative team now want to take David V Goliath into schools and other theatres. Let’s hope they succeed, because this show is too good to be left gathering dust.