Young people dazzle at Salford Arts Theatre

Local young actors triumphed with their colourful performance of the much-loved musical Bugsy Malone.

A Salix Homes supported theatre group, run by Footlights, dazzled the crowds with their adaptation last month (June) at Salford Arts Theatre.

After weeks of hard work the young cast delighted the audience with their songs, costumes, dance routines and drama.

For many years the Salford housing association has subsidised the weekly theatre performing arts school – who run from St Sebastian’s Community Centre, Charlestown – providing an affordable avenue for low-income families.

The group’s role is to encourage children and young people to better themselves with performing arts and equip them with transferable life skills.

Many of the students have gone onto audition for various roles, including Salford 11-year-old Cody Moran, who performed in the school’s latest show.

Cody’s mum Debi said her son simply loves being on stage and the school is enabling him to develop his talent – including helping him get auditions – including a recent one with BBC’s CBeebies

However, she admits that she would “struggle” financially if the classes were not subsidised.

“He absolutely loves the group and performing,” Debi said.

“Even before he started attending the classes you could tell he wanted to be on stage.

“It would have been extremely difficult to take him outside of Salford with public transport costs, so it’s brilliant that this is on our doorstep. Also with prices almost halved with Salix Homes’ support, it’s helped me afford these classes.”

Sue Sutton, Executive Director of Operations, said: “We’re proud to support this excellent children’s theatre school. It is a vital and vibrant avenue for young people to spread their theatrical wings and have fun.”

Lisa Donnelly, a director at Footlights, said: “One of the reasons Footlights started is because we wanted to engage with young people, take them off the streets and onto the stage. So it’s important to work with local community projects, schools and organisations like Salix Homes in helping young people fulfil their dreams.”

Footlights offers affordable acting, singing and dancing tuition for three to 18-year-olds across Greater Manchester. To find out more visit: www.footlightstheatre.co.uk or call 07956 423 895.