Relief drama teacher, Mary faces an uphill struggle when she tries to interest sixteen-year-olds Stacey, Kelly and Maggie in dance. She isn't helped by the science-obsessed headmaster, nor by the girl's patent lack of commitment, nor by the lack of funds and resources, but she ploughs doggedly on. A trip to London to take part in a dance competition proves to be a turning point; the girls, though they don't win, gain confidence, and Mary nearly becomes romantically involved with Stacey's dad, Jimmy. With an energetic score by John Pattison and opportunities for dancing, singing and acting, "Thick as a Brick" is all-round entertainment laced with John Godber's characteristic insight and humour.