Performing arts workshop puts student in the spotlight
A supercalifragilisticexpialidocious time was had by a group of West Lancashire College students recently, thanks to funding from Future U.
A performing arts workshop, funded by Future U, allowed students to hone their theatre skills by participating in dancing, singing and acting exercises – culminating in a final group performance to round off the day.
West End performer Joe Dockree, who has previously worked on the West End production of Mary Poppins the Musical, stopped by to choreograph the famous scene in which characters Mary and Bert are transported into one of Bert’s chalk drawings. The scene forms part of the students’ production of Mary Poppins Jr, which is being performed during June at the college.
As well as teaching the students new skills and performance techniques, Joe provided them with the opportunity to ask questions regarding pathways into the profession and an insight into what life as a performer is really like.
Gemma Nightingale, Outreach Assistant at Future U, said: “Future U is pleased to have funded this incredible experience, as it allowed the students to work with a professional actor with West End experience.
“It was a wonderful experience for all involved. Sitting in on the workshop, I witnessed the students’ development, growing in confidence throughout the day and taking great pride in the work they had produced together.”