Drama classes to expand

Ariel Drama Academy already runs successful Saturday mornings sessions, called Othello’s, for children with Special Needs in Crawley and Burgess Hill, and it is hoping to expand and open a branch in Steyning from January, 2013.

Sue Jay, head of creative arts at QEII School in Horsham, runs the Burgess Hill sessions. She said she would love to see more budding young actors and actresses grace the stage.

“Many of our Othello’s have appeared in our showcases and also in Les Misérables, Bugsy Malone and many more.

“Our aim is to open up our one-hour sessions, which includes drama, dance and music, to more Othello’s.

“Pupils will receive additional support from other Ariel staff, as well as students from the academy who are keen to become ‘Buddies’.”

Students who support the Othello’s won the Diana Award for Excellence in July for helping children with special needs to be able to access weekly drama, singing and dance classes.

Nicci and Neil Hopson, principals of Ariel Drama Academy said: “We pride ourselves that the drama school is fully inclusive in every aspect.”

Ariel currently runs general drama sessions at Steyning Grammar School for youngsters aged seven to 19. Sessions are 9.45am to 12.45pm on Saturday. Visit www.arielct.co.uk for more information.