A THEATRE school for children aged 4+ has opened in Westbury and taster sessions are being run over the Easter holidays.
‘A Star Theatre School’ is a brand new theatre school that encourages children who enjoy performing arts to learn more about singing, acting and dancing.
The classes are run by three experienced dance, acting and singing teachers. Abigail Hanks will teach the acting classes. She is a teacher of English and has a degree in drama, media and cultural studies. Abi has worked in many schools and has been performing from a young age.
Abi said, “I love seeing the positive effect that expressive arts can have on individuals of all ages. I’m passionate about children being able to express their thoughts and ideas in a safe, creative and fun environment.”
In charge of dance is Amy Louise Watts who studied at The Centre – Performing Arts College gaining a teaching qualification. Amy has performed in a variety of shows, pantomimes and ballets.
Amy said, “I’m passionate about teaching dance and I feel a great sense of achievement when students are learning through enjoyment. I’m excited to be a part of ‘A Star Theatre School’.”
Finally, Amy Thomas will be sharing her singing expertise. Amy has been performing since the age of four. She performed with the Welsh National Youth Opera before graduating from Cardiff University with a Bachelor of Music.
In 2003 Amy was chosen as the female Welsh representative to sing the National Anthem prior to every Welsh match at the Rugby World Cup in Australia. Amy was also part of the cast in the West End performing Pirates of Penzance, Iloanthe and The Milkado.
Amy said, “I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone at the taster sessions and being part of the A Star team.”
Amy Watts said, “Our classes will run to term time. Age 4-7 years will have an hour slot combining all three genres and learning their initial skills in theatre. From age 8+ years the training increases to 3 hours on a Saturday, giving more time to focus on building strengths and confidence in each genre.
“The classes are designed to encourage everyone and the children will showcase their work with watching days, recitals and performances. Our taster sessions are free and will run in the Easter break for children to come along and try us out, meet the teachers and visit our venue. This is a great chance to see if they enjoy it before signing up for a term. If parents are unsure on the class we would say come along and try a class; we offer a free trial so there’s no sign up worries. It’s a fantastic way to build your child’s confidence, introduce them to performing and most of all give them a fun and enjoyable hobby where they can make new friends.”
A Star Theatre School will start its first term on 16th April after the taster days on Wednesday 30th March 10am-12pm and Friday 8th April 2pm-4pm. Find them at Unit 5, Commerce Close, West Wilts Trading Estate, BA13 4LS. For more details call 824882 or visit www.facebook.com/astartheatreschool