成人快手

The Education Outreach programme at the Regent Theatre in Hanley is a scheme that is dedicated to giving young people in Stoke-on-Trent the opportunity to develop their acting and singing abilities.

The students are trained by industry professionals and the drama and singing workshops are held over the summer period. The end product is a grand finally at the Victoria Hall in front of friends and Family.

I visited the Regent to find out what the scheme is about and what the participants get out of it. I spoke to John Coughlin, The Regent's creative learning officer. He is part of the team that is responsible for running the scheme.

Building a career

I found out that the scheme is a fantastic way to start building a career in the arts. It increases confidence and it's a good way to get a job at your local theatre. Here's what John had to say...

I also spoke to Rachael Rimmer, the Regent's resident dance choreographer. She is a very enthusiastic character and gave advice on how to become a professional dancer.

She works hand in hand with the dancers so that they also bring their own ideas to the routines. Her realistic advice just goes to show how competitive the industry is...

Juel Mcleary is the acting Choreographer for the Outreach programme, with 10 years worth of experience she is an invaluable asset to the scheme. She helps the actors improve their specking skills and team working abilities.

The group of about 17 actors (pictured above) were extremely proud of their work, and were very professional about it. Most of them were acting for fun because they loved it as a hobby.

I was lucky enough to get a sneak pick whilst the actors were rehearsing for their final performance. The performance involved some lifting and solo performances but I was really impressed with the way the group worked as a team. Communicating and supporting each other.

High School Musical

Over at the Victoria hall I visited the group of singers; they were putting the final touches to their performance. A much larger group of around 22 singers were singing songs from the High School Musical.

I also managed to get a chance to speak to several of the singers. They all have really high aspirations and most of them want to become professional singers.

To hear my interviews with the actors and singers - and a short song from the singers too! - click on the links below.

Issie Crosby is the group's vocal coach. She gave me an insight into what it's like working with group, and told me that most of the singers that joined the group were very talented to start of with whilst other made great progress.

The young people who attend the workshops go for the opportunity to have fun, meet new friends or develop their skills. Not all of them want to become professionals.

It is fair to say that for what ever reason they have for joining the Outreach programme they have the sphere of influence and support from professionals to achieve their dreams.

Melvin Rao