Stagecoach Performing Arts is expanding, with a new school in Keynsham joining the ranks, and local children are being invited to sample some of the singing, dancing and acting classes.
In anticipation of the school’s opening, a free “Discovery Day” is running on 9th September, where children aged between six and eleven years will have a chance to sample singing, dancing and acting classes.
To experience Stagecoach, teachers have organised circus choreography in dance for the Discovery Day.
Parents can stay for tea and coffee, observe the lessons and then join their children towards the final curtain call.
The Principal of the new school, Olivia Kennard, 37, has seen first hand the benefits that a performing arts education can have on young students’ personal and professional development.
Olivia has been running the Keynsham branch since 2010, and is now opening a third set of classes to meet popular demand. As Principal of the new school, Olivia Kennard brings a wealth of creative experience to the role.
A long-standing member of the Stagecoach family, performing arts have been a major part of Olivia’s life since she took up the role of The Artful Dodger in The Redgrave Theatre aged eight.
Since then her impressive ‘CV’ boasts performances with The British Touring Shakespeare Company and television work with ITV Carlton, Channel 4, and Endemol.
Olivia said: “I started stage school at age eight and simply loved learning new skills and stretching myself as a youngster. Through dancing, singing and acting I learnt invaluable life skills, which have helped me in my career in theatre and as a television presenter.
“Performance arts help foster invaluable life skills kids can draw upon as they grow up: confidence, self-esteem, physical awareness, resilience; true Creative Courage for Life.”
She continued: “I have assembled an inspiring team of industry professionals who I have worked with over many years to teach the children. Each brings with them huge talent in their chosen discipline. We’ve spent the summer planning and the founding students starting in September are in for an amazing inaugural year!”
Amongst the planned activities in the curriculum are a Circus themed show for the end of term and looking ahead – LAMDA and Musical Theatre exams.
Stagecoach’s Discovery Day is on 9th September and will run for 90 minutes from 10am – 11.30am. Booking via email or phone call is essential.
Stagecoach Performing Arts Keynsham is part of a network of more than 600 extra-curricular Performing Arts Schools worldwide.
Stagecoach aims to make a difference in its students’ lives by teaching Creative Courage for Life and many children have gone on to study and work in Performing Arts from blockbuster films to countless roles in local theatre productions.
Early Stages classes are available for children aged four to six and Main Stages classes take place for six to 18 year olds every weekend.
For more information about Stagecoach Keynsham, visit their website at http://www.stagecoach.co.uk/bristolkeynsham or call 0117 9028925.
