Join the fun at family-run theatre group

The company is a small, family-run organisation, which runs drama academies in five locations in Sussex, of which Worthing is the newest, opening in February.

Spokeswoman Tanya Botting said: “The opening in Worthing has got off to a really good start, and the school is already getting involved in the community, with free workshops in schools, including Palatine Primary School and performances planned as part of the Worthing Arts Trail.

“We are keen to attract more students to the Worthing Academy, which has great facilities at Worthing College and runs every Saturday afternoon. We are holding an open day on June 7 to give potential students a taste of what Ariel offers and so they can come along and see how much fun performing can be.”

Tanya added: “While the academy teaches dance, singing and acting to the highest quality, it is the elusive X-factor that makes the academy special. In this case, the magic ingredients are the dedicated teaching staff and Ariel’s philosophy that every child should feel welcomed and supported, as they learn in a fun, safe environment.

“As well as developing their talents in all areas of the performing arts, pupils learn life skills, including teamwork, voice work, self-expression and the necessary discipline to put on performances, all of which build their confidence and self-esteem.”

The open afternoon on Saturday, June 7, runs from 2.15pm until 5.15pm when children aged between five and 19 can come along and join in for free. Those attending will also receive free tickets to Ariel’s Crawley Academy Showcase, which is a full evening of entertainment taking place at The Hawth Theatre on July 6.

During the open afternoon visitors will meet Worthing principal and dance teacher Hayley Brown and drama tutor Ben Simpson.

Hayley said: “The Worthing Academy has got off to a flying start, and we would be delighted to see more local students joining us. We have exciting plans for the future! During our weekly dance sessions students can look forward to high energy, fun sessions aimed to build confidence while working creatively and learning innovative choreography, while in Ben’s drama classes’ students will working on improvisation, script work and devising their own pieces of theatre.”

To sign up for Ariel’s Worthing Open Afternoon, call Worthing principal Hayley Brown on 0752 883 3166 or email [email protected].