Stagecoach Performing Arts Newbury take to the stage of Shaftesbury Theatre in London’s West End

Students from Stagecoach Performing Arts Newbury took to the stage of the illustrious Shaftesbury Theatre in the West End in productions that showcased their performance skills, creativity and courage.

As part of the show, students performed a variety of medleys and renditions of world-famous songs from musicals, films, television shows and artists.

On the night, family and friends were able to enjoy a plethora of performances by students from 15 Stagecoach schools.

Stagecoach’s students have been able to grace the stage of this iconic venue with a multitude of amazing performances at Shaftesbury over the past two years since the pandemic. These showcases build on the student's creativity and courage - skills that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Stagecoach Newbury Principal Jennifer Unthank, said: "I am so incredibly proud of them all, there is nothing as exciting as seeing them on stage, giving their all and loving every second of it. I've known most of them since they were little, and I cried all through the dress rehearsal!"

In the 35 years since launching, Stagecoach Performing Arts has seen more than one million students unlock their creative potential. Provided with the support and dedication of such an outstanding Principal network, the students learn so much more than how to sing, dance and act. Stagecoach helps young people blossom into well-rounded individuals, ready to embrace life and all of its exciting opportunities.

The value of performing arts training extends far beyond the opportunities for professional performance features. Recent Stagecoach survey research highlighted the incredible positive impacts the arts have on children’s happiness and creativity, with 85 per cent of children citing singing and dancing with their peers as a major contributing factor to their happiness.

Almost half (41 per cent) of the nation’s parents are concerned that their children are less happy growing up than their generation had been. Encouraging participation in the arts will have undeniable benefits for the wellbeing of both children and parents.

With a network of more than 55,000 students and 3000 extra-curricular Performing Arts Schools worldwide, Stagecoach aims to make a difference in its students’ lives by teaching Creative Courage for Life and many children have gone on to study and work in Performing Arts from blockbuster films to countless roles in local theatre productions. Early Stages classes are available for children aged four to six and Main Stages classes take place for six to 18-year-olds every weekend during term time.

The youngsters worked extremely hard through weeks of rehearsals and finally got to see the work pay off on a professional stage, with an audience of family and friends.

The whole network is extremely excited to have celebrated its 35th anniversary this year.

For more information about Stagecoach Performing Arts Newbury, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/newbury or call 07526 658471.