Stafford youngsters showcase talent

The Stafford Sports and Performance Academy Christmas show took place at Blessed William Howard Catholic School on December 19.

The event built upon the success of the previous year's show and saw approximately 30 acts, totalling more than 350 young people, performing to two sell-out audiences prior to Christmas.

Not only was the event a great platform to showcase both the array of dance groups the Academy run but it was also well received by parents who were able to see how their children's hard work was paying off.

The audiences, including Stafford MP Jeremy Lefroy and his wife Janet, were entertained by a whole host of Stafford Sports and Performance Academy dance groups, such as ballet, musical theatre, contemporary and street dance, as well by local dance group 'Dappa Dance'.

The shows were also interspersed with musical solos and duets from various local talented youngsters, some of whom are also members of the dance groups.

Stafford Sports and Performance Academy street and contemporary dance teacher Hayley Wenlock said: "The build up to Christmas is always busy but to have a show like this at the end of the year gives the young people the buzz that comes from performing."

Ballet and musical theatre teacher Nicole Manning was also particularly proud of her groups saying that 'it was great to see the youngsters hard work pay off, and they really rose to the occasion of performing in front of a big crowd'.

Thanks must go to the caretakers at Blessed William Howard Catholic High School as well to the technical teams for organising the lighting and video footage.

Further shows organised by Stafford Sports and Performance Academy will begin later in the year starting with the Stafford and Stone Schools Celebration of Music show at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre across the week from Monday, February 29th.

Dance groups have also now resumed for 2016 but spaces are available in all classes for new members.

For information please contact Stephen Glover on 07793 891029.