Newport's own fame academy set to open

10:20pm Monday 5th January 2009

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Future stars of the stage will be developing their talents at a new performing arts academy opening in Newport.

The Dance Katz Academy of Theatre Arts will be offering tuition from experienced professionals in dance, singing and drama.

Sarah Milne is opening her Saturday stage school to provide enthusiastic young performers with lessons on their doorstep, as she said many children are travelling to schools in Bristol or London to get tuition.

The likes of High School Musical, Fame and Britannia High will come to the city as each year pupils showcase their talents by putting together a production.

Mrs Milne set up the Dance Katz, a cheerleading group who perform at Newport Gwent Dragons matches, almost a year ago and this is her latest business venture.

She is originally from Carleon and her career in the performing arts saw her take part in 20 pantomimes and perform in West End shows such as Chorus Line, before returning to Gwent in 2006 to teach others.

She said: "I want to provide first class training in Newport instead of seeing children going further afield to get professional teaching."

Mrs Milne is hoping to open a Sunday stage school for over 16s, Classes will take place every Saturday at Trinity Methodist Church in Glasllwch Lane, with a group for children aged five to seven and a group for seven to 16 year olds.

A 12-week term will cost £150 and each week three hours of tuition will be provided to the two different age categories.

The academy opens on March 7.

For more information and to enquire about places at the school call Sarah Milne on 07890 261031.