Putting pupils in the spotlight

Youngsters were given a chance to shine when they performed a showcase for family, friends and industry contacts in The Minster School, Southwell.

There was lots of singing, dancing, and acting by pupils from the Newark-based Tom Gribby Theatre Arts School.

Entry to the group is by audition only. The next date for the September intake is July 13 at 10am. The school is open to children aged seven and over. Tom will undertake a free one hour acting workshop with those wanting to take part.

Those who are successful attend workshops at Newark Academy’s Lilley and Stone site on Saturdays from 10am to 1pm.

Tom, who trained in Nottingham at the Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama, said an hour would be spent with him on audition technique and production with the remaining two hours spent with regular and guest industry professionals on acting, singing and musical theatre.

Tom is also running a West End Masterclass Summer School from July 29 to 31 from 10am to 5pm. Many of his friends and colleagues are travelling from London to teach and there will be a short performance of the work they have been doing on the last day.

He opened his theatre school two years and it has gone from strength to strength.

Tom was taught at Lincoln College and Newark College but left when he started performing professionally.

Over the years he has toured in 42nd Street, A Chorus Line in Hong Kong, choreographed Spotlight For The Musicals with Faye Tozer in the UK and toured in High School Rocks.

Tom said inspiring young people and helping them realise their potential was what made him set up the school.

He said: “I wanted to give youngsters a platform on which they could gain a variety of skills, and my chance to give something back to the community.”

Anyone interested in auditioning or taking part in the summer school should go to www.tomgribbytheatrearts.com email newark@tomgribbytheatrearts.com or call 07739 961597.