Young actors to stage Hairspray

An adaptation of the musical Hairspray is to be staged on September 3 and 4 by a 40-strong cast of students aged between 10 and 16 from the Drama Troupe summer school.

The summer school, held every day at Chiswick House School, brings together 160 children aged between three and 16, in a colourful and intensive exploration of theatrical arts.

Besides the usual classes of acting, singing and dancing, other theatre-related skills are taught in a fun way.

This year a new class on circus skills was launched with children learning how to use stilts and diabolos as well as juggling balls and cones.

The school offers lessons on face painting and stage crafting, including the production of masks and props, as well as puppetry, hip-hop, tap dancing and karaoke.

Lorraine Aquilina, the director, said the summer school aims to boost confidence in young children.

The school also provides young children with computer skills, including poster design and newsletter writing, enabling them to work in all areas of theatre, including administration.

Most of the teachers are ex-students of Drama Troupe, who obtained diplomas in acting, singing or drama.

Hairspray will be put on at Chiswick's Centenary Theatre, directed by Jean Marc Agius Cafa' and produced by Ms Aquilina, with choreography by Sue Vassallo and Kane O'Flaherty and musical direction by Joe Gatt.

Bookings can be made by calling 7940 2179 or e-mailing dramatroupe@gmail.com. Entrance is free.