award-winning Teesdale Operatic Society is launching a musical theatre school for youngsters in the dale.
The youth wing of the group, known as TOYS, kicks off the first term of the new theatre school on Monday, September 11.
Dawn Trevor, operatic society chairwoman, said: “We’re super excited we are launching our first term of the TOYS musical theatre school. Being on stage isn’t just about the glittering spotlight and the applause.
“As part of a musical theatre group your child will not only be receiving excellent training in all three disciplines, but they will grow in confidence, make new friends and generally have a lot of fun.”
The operatic society has gone from strength to strength since launching in 2019, staging multiple productions to great acclaim since the Covid lockdowns.
Last year it won five awards from the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) and is nominated for more this year.
The musical theatre school follows on from the success of their summer schools, which have been well attended over the last two years.
Aimed at youngsters aged between seven and 18 years the two-hour weekly sessions will feature workshops and games as well as focusing on acting, dance and vocals.
Youngsters will also receive coaching, guidance and audition tips and techniques and will perform a final showcase for friends and family at the end of term.
Ms Trevor added: “The theatre school is about learning and growing together. We will explore vocal ranges, learn new songs and how to sing harmonies as well as receiving top-notch choreography coaching along with acting and performance skills that will assist them in all areas of their learning.”
The autumn term runs from Monday, September 11, until Monday, December 4, with a two-week break for half term. Each session runs from 5pm until 7pm, at St Mary’s Methodist Hall in Barnard Castle.
The theatre school costs £120 per child for the term, which can be paid in two half-termly instalments of £60. A hardship fund is available.
For more information or to book visit www.teesdaleoper
aticsociety.co.uk
Teesdale Operatic Society is also starting work on its next production, An Intimate Night at the Musicals, which will be performed at venues around the dale in November.
Ms Trevor added: “The aim of the production is to give as many members the opportunity to perform, without having to commit to a long show run or multiple dates. The evening will be beautifully curated to showcase the best of our amazing talent of both our children and adult members with a wide variety of musical numbers and scenes from many of the most well-known shows.”
The aim is to have four dates in November at four difference venues. The first rehearsal evening takes place on Monday, September 11, from 7.15pm until 9pm at St Mary’s Methodist Church Hall in Barnard Castle.
