Into The Woods – Script Youth Musical Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Into the Woods – Script Youth Musical Theatre

Crescent Theatre – Birmingham

Friday 28th November– Dress Rehearsal

By Lee Williams

**Photography – Lee Williams Photography (For WOISC)**

If you love fairy tales but wish they had a bit more bite (and more songs), “Into The Woods” is right up your alley. This musical, created by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, takes stories you already know—Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel—and mashes them together in a way that’s both hilarious and surprisingly deep. Since hitting Broadway in 1987, it’s become a favourite for theatre fans everywhere. Now it’s here – presented by Script Youth Musical Theatre Company.

At first glance, it’s a strange and wild mix of familiar characters all heading into the woods to chase after their biggest dreams. The Baker and his Wife just want a kid, but a Witch has put a curse on them. Everyone’s paths cross, and things get out of hand fast. Wishes do come true—but not always in the way anyone expects.

The music in “Into The Woods” is awesome. In the original Sondheim really knew how to write songs that stick with you. From the catchy and funny “Agony” to the moving “No One Is Alone,” there’s a great mix of humour and heart. The lyrics are clever, packed with puns and deeper meanings, so there’s always something new to catch each time you listen.

The production and set here is kept simple, letting your imagination fill in the rest. There’s plenty of room for cool lighting and sound effects, and with so many characters sharing the stage, things stay lively and fun.

This show gives actors a lot to work with—no boring roles here! Whether it’s the Baker, the Witch, or even Little Red Riding Hood, everyone gets a moment to shine. Performances by Gracie Reynolds and Masie Holdsworth as the Witch are lively and pop whereas Daniel George and Niamh Scott-Walters/Lexi Roberts play the Baker and Baker’s Wife brilliantly. We must admit, Nancy Reynolds and Isla Rose Thompson play extremely cute cows!

“Into The Woods” is loads of fun, with catchy songs and sharp humour, but it also has something to say. Whether you’re watching for the first time or the fiftieth, you’ll find new bits to enjoy and think about. So, if you’re up for a musical that’s smart, funny, and a little bit dark, don’t miss your chance to get lost in these woods.

Samantha Barks – Lichfield Cathedral ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Samantha Barks : The Cathedral Tour

Lichfield Cathedral

Wednesday 12th November 2025

By : Tracey Spare for WOISC

Photography : Tracey Spare for WOISC

Award-winning Broadway, West End and film star, Samantha Barks, breezed into Lichfield Cathedral last night for the first night of her seven-night Cathedral Tour.

Samantha Barks first came to public attention in 2008 finishing third in the BBC talent show ‘I’d Do Anything’ – Andrew Lloyd Webber’s search for a new unknown lead to play Nancy in the West End revival of Oliver in the West End.

In 2009 she was confirmed to play the lead role of Sally Bowles in the UK tour of Cabaret and made her film debut as Éponine in the 2012 adaptation of Les Misérables.

She played Velma Kelly in the 2013 Hollywood Bowl production of Chicago and has since followed with further landmark lead roles on Broadway in the stage musical of Pretty Women & as Elsa in the West End production of Frozen.

Over 700 people packed into Lichfield Cathedral to hear Samantha take us on an eclectic journey through some of her lead roles including songs from Frozen, Oliver, Les Misérables and a spellbinding sole rendition of her favourite Andrew Lloyd Webber song Another Suitcase in Another Hall from Evita.

Many of the remaining songs were selected by members of the audience with the evening intertwined answering questions submitted ahead of the concert by fans gathered in the medieval cathedral.

She seamlessly included popular songs including Shania Twain’s ‘You’re Still the One’ along with renditions of ‘Lose Control’ by Teddy Swims, and ‘What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish both of which she performed whilst winning the 2025 ITV Series of ‘The Masked Singer’.

It was the first time she’d performed in a cathedral, and she was undoubtedly thrilled of opportunity to perform in such unique surroundings. The stripped back set – she was accompanied by a pianist and cellist surrounded by dozens of candles at the front of the stage – allowed her voice to blossom amongst the high arches.

The end of each song was greeted with rapturous applause, and she returned to the stage to conclude the concert with an encore singing ‘On My Own’ from Les Misérables.

Samatha Barks Cathedral Tour details can be found visiting https://lambertjackson.co.uk/samantha-barks

⭐️ ⭐️ Christmas Events in Sutton Coldfield Town Centre ⭐️ ⭐️

Christmas Events in Sutton Coldfield Town Centre

Sunday 30th November

Meet The Grinch & Cindy-Lou 12pm-3pm

Free Face painting 10am-3pm

Farmers & Craft Market 10am-3pm

Saturday 13th December

Walk In Snow globe 11am-4pm

Victorian Stilt Walker 12pm-4pm

Meet Father Christmas 12pm-4pm

Victorian Christmas Market 10am-8pm

Sunday 14th December

Walk In Snow globe 11am-4pm

Victorian Stilt Walker 12pm-4pm

Meet Father Christmas 12pm-4pm

Victorian Christmas Market 10am-5pm

Saturday 20th December

See The Gingerbreads 12pm-3pm

Victorian Stilt Walker 12pm-4pm

Meet Father Christmas 12pm-4pm

Victorian Christmas Market 10am-8pm

Sunday 21st December

See The Elves 12pm-4pm

Victorian Stilt Walker 12pm-4pm

Meet Father Christmas 12pm-4pm

Victorian Christmas Market 10am-5pm

Victorian Christmas Market

Week 1)

Thursday 11th – Sunday 14th December

Week 2)

Thursday 18th – Sunday 21st December

Times) Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10am-8pm & Sunday10am-5pm

Events brought to you by Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID and Victorian Market trader bookings through LSD Promotions

Sutton Coldfield town centre

Pictures Courtesy Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID

Jesus Christ Superstar – SCMTC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Jesus Christ Superstar – Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday November 3rd – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

I know this show has enduring appeal; friends had raved about various productions of the rock opera, citing its powerful score, emotion, and timeless themes. Yes, the show still feels hauntingly relevant today. Telling the story of Jesus’s last week, themes of betrayal, fame, fear, bullying, and salvation can all be interpreted through a modern lens. Add to that a soaring, emotionally charged score, and you have a musical that still resonates today.

I first saw this show in 1973, it was the original production starring Paul Nicholas and Dana Gillespie when I was a young and impressionable teenager on a school trip to London. To this day, and after seeing many different musicals since, Jesus Christ Superstar remains one of my absolute favourites. It left a lasting impression on me through the sheer power of the music, the extraordinary vocals, and its timeless themes, which still feel just as relevant half a century later.

It takes no small amount of courage to stage Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar, a rock opera that demands powerhouse vocals, razor-sharp musical timing, and a flair for the theatrical. Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre’s production rises to the challenge with energy, conviction, and moments of genuine brilliance.

From the opening guitar riff of “Heaven on Their Minds,” it was clear this was a group ready to give their all. Leo Foëtu-Foster’s Judas anchored the show with a strong voice and emotional intensity, navigating the character’s moral torment with a raw, human touch. Opposite him, Tom Well’s Jesus balanced serenity and anguish, delivering “Gethsemane” with a vulnerability that will hush the room. Definitely a standout moment of the evening.

Juliet Fisher’s portrayal of Mary Magdalene was another standout performance. She brought warmth and quiet strength to the role, balancing tenderness with emotional depth. Her performance of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” was delivered with sincerity and beautiful control, providing a gentle contrast to the intensity of the surrounding scenes. The chemistry between Mary, Jesus, and Judas was believable and added a human touch to the story’s spiritual themes.

The chorus brought strong energy to ensemble numbers like “Hosanna” and “Superstar,” and their enthusiasm, vibrant presence and commitment creating a dynamic atmosphere.

Making his debut as director Simon Smith has made imaginative use of the modest stage space, using minimal props barring some stepped section at the rear and sides of the stage and the cross in the finale. Doing so he has created a fast-paced production that never loses its sense of intimacy.

A particular highlight of this production was the choreography, which was both imaginative and dynamic. Under the direction of Maggie Jackson, the movement was tightly executed and visually striking, enhancing the storytelling without ever feeling forced. From the pulsating energy of the crowd scenes to the subtle, expressive gestures in the more reflective moments, the choreography added a layer of professionalism and polish that lifted the entire production. It was clear the cast had worked hard to master the demanding routines, and their commitment paid off beautifully.

The live band, led by Sheila Pearson, provided a solid rock backing that gave the show its essential drive. At times the volume seemed a little overpowering, but the overall sound was impressive.

Lighting by Going Dark Theatrical heightened intensity and mood, while the costuming blended traditional and contemporary elements effectively. More than the technical achievements, what shone brightest was the passion of the entire company.

This production was clearly a labour of love, and that heartfelt commitment carried right through to the final moments.

Haunting Julia – Sutton Arts Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Haunting Julia – Sutton Arts Theatre

Sutton Arts Theatre

Thursday 23rd October 2025 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

The play is set twelve years after the death by suicide of Julia Lukin, a phenomenally talented young musician who had some desperate psychological problems. Her father, who still cannot come to terms with her death, has turned her student bed-sitting room into a museum which the public can visit – for himself it is a shrine to her memory.

The production team at the Sutton Arts always produce good sets, and this one is no exception. The single bed with the teddy bear on the pillow might at first seem to be a child’s bedroom, but the roped-off barrier around the bed soon suggests something else – and this barrier becomes essential to the themes of the play.

The play promises the audience ‘thrills and chills,’ but really the play is more complex and troubling than an exciting ghost story. It explores the reasons for Julia’s suicide, and the part that three different men may have had in leading to her death.

This involves many tensions and confrontations between the men, who become increasingly disturbed by the revelations that emerge during both halves of the play. This makes big demands on the cast – it is a long play that has to be carried by just three actors. Luckily all three are capable of meeting the challenge. David Stone as Julia’s father not only conveys his own pain but also helps us realise how oppressive he may have been as a parent to a gifted but unhappy daughter. David brought out the range of his character well – sometimes garrulous, opinionated and intolerant of disagreement, but also vulnerable and frightened that he may have been at fault. Alan Groucott gives a solid performance as Andy, Julia’s former student boyfriend who has tried to put her death behind him. He seems to be the voice of exasperated common sense, but by the end he is horrified by what he hears and experiences in this room. Ian Eaton has the trickiest role as Ken Chase, the volunteer psychic who, again, turns out to have had more to do with Julia than he is willing to reveal. Julia is played by Leah Fennell although we don’t see Julia we certainly hear from her

Finally, the special effects were very striking, and at the end they certainly lived up to the claims of being spine-chilling. They made a dramatic finish to the production, and left us with a lot to wonder about.

The show is directed by Claire Armstrong-Mills who has directed many plays in Birmingham theatres. Ten of them have been at Sutton Arts Theatre, she has however never directed a ghost story, nor yet any play by Alan Ayckbourn. Claire was intrigued to be given the chance to do both in a single play, Haunting Julia. Claire has thoroughly enjoyed working on this challenging and little-produced play with a talented and committed cast and crew.

My Fair Lady – Cloc Musical Theatre Company ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Fair Lady – Cloc MTC

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Wednesday 22nd October 2025 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

‘My Fair Lady’ is a wonderful show. The musical is set in London, in that great period at the beginning of the 20th century, when the Empire, King and country were all Great with a capital G, and tells the story of a famous English Language phonetician, Henry Higgins, who makes a bet with friend and fellow linguist, Colonel Pickering, that he can turn a working-class flower seller into a high society lady in six months. The challenge is accepted, since Eliza herself the “guttersnipe” flowergirl wishes to learn to speak properly in order to work in a flower shop.

I have seen the show once before about 25 years ago with a star studded cast including Jonathan Pryce, Martine McCutcheon and Dennis Waterman, very nice you might say, but my point is that this cast from Cloc MTC could easily take their places, so polished and professional are their performances.

First off, this is a long show nearly three hours so get comfortable for a long but rewarding journey in uncomfortable theatre chairs!

The set is predominantly a huge screen showing scenes of London, Covent Garden, Ascot and general street scenes. This worked superbly with only a few props having to be moved on and off stage.

John Biddell plays Henry Higgins. One of the standout aspects of Johns’s portrayal was his ability to capture Higgins’ arrogance and condescension. Higgins is a character who is used to getting his way and sees himself as superior to those around him, particularly Eliza. John was able to convey this sense of superiority through his posture, facial expressions, and vocal inflections, at the same time he also showed Higgins vulnerability and humanity. John managed to show this complexity through his performance and particularly his interactions with Eliza.

Moving on to Eliza Dolittle, Audrey Hepburn who made this role unmatchable that is until Samantha Rogers took on the role, her fabulous voice and wonderful acting gave soul to the character. Her vocal range is incredible and she demonstrates excellent control. She brought Eliza to life in a way that few performers have before. Her performance was subtle and detailed and her singing had wonderful quality that draws the audience in and keeps them engaged. Her incredible voice, combined with her acting skills, made her portrayal of Miss Doolittle truly unforgettable. She left a lasting impression on us.

Matt Beebe made a lively, spritely, and considerate Pickering. A lovely clear voice and diction as well as a great stage presence helped his character along nicely. Hayley Howen as Henry’s mother, Mrs.Higgins was a delight, as was Stacey Muxlow’s Mrs Pearce. Alex Nash gives a wonderful performance as the lovestruck Freddie and his rendition of On The Street Where You Live was beautiful and really endearing.

The principals were supported by a large and enthusiastic chorus of all ages, filling the stage where necessary.

Producer Rosemary Ravenscroft has done an excellent job pulling together this mammoth show whilst installing a level of commitment and enthusiasm from what must be hours and hours of rehearsals, that is off the scale, this can be seen in the dance sections choreographed by Teresa Biddell which are superb and so in sync – perfect.

The orchestra led by Peter Wingate were excellent if not somewhat over powering in a few sections. Lighting by Going Dark was as usual “spot on”.

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre

Lichfield Garrick

Tuesday 23rd September 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : LMYT

Charlie and The Chocolate Factory The Musical opened on the West End in 2013 where it ran for 3.5 years but it took another 10 years for the show to tour the UK. The show is based on the Roald Dahl book which tells of Charlie Bucket who spends his day dreaming of chocolate. When Willy Wonka announces a chance for 5 children to win a tour around the famous chocolate factory, it sends the world into a frenzy but with Charlie’s family struggling to afford just one chocolate bar it looks unlikely that they would win, let alone the chance to win the biggest prize of them all.

The show is one of two halves. Act 1 focuses on the hunt for the winning tickets, Charlie’s daily struggles and his relationship with his Mother and Grandparents also the burgeoning friendship with the chocolate shop owner. As each child that wins a ticket they get a song that introduces their character with an introduction from reporters. Charlie finding the ticket seemed a little anti-climatic and the magnitude of this event glossed over swiftly. The second act however is where the magic begins and we meet Willy Wonka and venture into the Chocolate Factory itself. The use of a giant projection screen really helps us visualise the factory and the interior along with some fantastic props (I won’t spoil it).

The cast are all very strong. Zach Andrews plays Willy Wonka and did so with a good mix of eccentric and genius, giving a strong performance beyond his years, his vocals strong and beautifully delivered. Brandon Westaway plays Charlie with fantastic enthusiasm, again his singing was excellent. Zephan Rowe took on the role of Grandpa Joe who gets out of bed for the first time in years to take Charlie on the trip of a lifetime. Zephan portrayed Grandpa Joe with a huge amount of heart and had the audience rooting for him from the start. I also enjoyed the portrayal of Mrs Bucket, played by Eleanor Foulds. My favourites had to be the Oompa Loompa’s fantastic make up and energy, oh and their poor knees you’ll see what I mean

The rest of the golden ticket winners Eliza Bullock as Veruca Salt frightening , Leo Stubbington as Mike Teevee and Isabella Hamilton as Violet Beaurearde (make sure you don’t miss the bit where she balloons in size) all play their roles with enthusiasm and skill.

The rest of the cast play their parts with such energy and enthusiasm and vocally fantastic you’ll be tired just watching them.

This is a great show professionally staged directed and choreographed with passion by Oliver Rowe and Jemma Tiso-Johnson and full credit must also go to the backstage team led by Matthew Garfield and to musical director and the orchestra led by Ian Stephenson.

Grease – Tudor Musical Comedy Society ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Grease – Tudor Musical Comedy Society

Sutton Coldfield Town hall

Monday 22nd September – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

We all know Grease we’ve seen the film with Danny, Sandy, T-Birds and Pink Ladies. Tudor MCS are, and will be performing it in style and you will be off to the Town Hall like “Greased Lightning” to watch it.

The show starts at the 25 year reunion for Rydell High, I don’t think I’ve seen this start before and I’ve seen the show more times than I can count. Anyway, this is the original opening with Eugene giving a rousing speech mentioning those who are missing. This segues ways into the T Birds and Pink Ladies singing a version of the Rydell Alma Mater, leading into a very energetic rendition of “Grease is The Word”

Its now flashback time, so off we go to Rydell High where the students are returning after summer break. Danny leader of the T-Birds meets up with the rest of the gang and reminisces about his summer on the beach and the girl he met, played by Elliot Scott-Lolley. He captures the strutting tough guy leader, his vocals are strong and he sings with confidence. Meanwhile Sandy played by Mia Davies is a school newcomer and is introduced to the Pink Ladies and she also tells of her summer romance while being put down by Rizzo, played by Charlotte Raybould. This brings us to the duet “Summer Lovin” Mia plays Sandy with a shy naivety her voice lovely crisp and tuneful.

Looking at the rest of the cast first, the T. Birds Doody, Roger, Kenike and Sonny played by Alex Nash, James Rowney, Dan McCloskey and Alex Tuckwell they absolutely nailed the camaraderie of the gang and had a perfect natural feel. Their singing was strong and energetic their individual songs also strong and effective. Now the Pink Ladies Rizzo, Frenchie, Marty and Jan played by Charlotte Raybould, Emily Loftus, Samantha Rogers and Eloise Tanley. Looking resplendent in their pink jackets were all perfect. Charlotte nailing the cynical strong alpha female, Emily looks the part of Frenchie the wannabe beauty therapist, Samantha perfect for the role of Marty, the worldly-wise member of the ladies with much experience in wine, men and cigarettes. Eloise as Jan plays the uncool member of the ladies who doesn’t stop eating excellently. All these ladies have fantastic voices singing with passion.

The rest of the cast play their roles with and gusto, bringing energy to the dance sequences and power to the group vocals indeed “Hand Jive” is just that and encourages audience participation, so you better brush up on your hand jive.

Juliet Fisher’s direction of the show is excellent and you can see her passion and commitment throughout. The cast also show this in their polished and slick delivery. Connie Mortiboy’s choreography is fantastic and the hours of practice show in the flowing and energetic dance routines. Full credit must also be given to the costumes makeup and backstage crew, also to Going Dark Theatrical Services for their excellent and atmospheric lighting.

Lichfield Operatic Society – Rock of Ages ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Rock Of Ages – Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

Monday 15th September 2025 (Dress Rehearsal)

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

Rock of Ages is ultimately a love story set in the 80’s in LA. Drew (Lewis Collier-Smith) is ‘just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit‘, hoping to make it big as a rock star. He meets ‘small town girl‘ Sherrie (Shannon Robinson) who also has a dream, she wants to be a famous actress. Like most stories, their tale of falling in love isn’t an easy ride.

The story takes place between two clubs on Sunset Strip. The show was loud, bright and it definitely was rocking!

Lonny (James Pugh) introduced himself and the show, not only was he a ‘barman’ at The Bourbon Bar, he was also the Narrator. He absolutely stole the show for me, he was hilarious, so at ease with the audience, he was OTT which made him more funny, he was loud and loveable. Shannon Robinson is Sherrie, she is perfect with the right amount of naivety for the girl in the big city, and she has the most gorgeous voice. Lewis who plays Drew the bus boy who just doesn’t know how good his voice really is produces a great performance of the shy and quiet and unassuming singer with a strong and powerful voice.

This show is a different kind of musical, it definitely doesn’t take itself seriously. It was fun and naughty, very naughty in parts! It was extremely cheesy, but I love cheese. It was very tongue-in-cheek and has a concert-style feel throughout. Adam Merrall plays Stacee Jaxx and he gives a great performance.

What makes this show fantastic is the cast, all of whom are fantastic. The singing and of course the soundtrack. The cast are all stars, their voices are fantastic.

Director Emma Hall has done an amazing job with the cast, every single member was full of enthusiasm and having the time of their lives. Charlotte Jervis on choreography duty yet again delivers some truly amazing and perfectly synchronised routines. Finally David Easto, musical director and band leader. The band were spot on and their renditions of the 80’s classics perfect.

The part of the show that had everyone standing up and dancing in the aisles is the soundtrack. The massive 80’s hits that the whole musical is set against. Journeys ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ was sung towards the end, bringing the audience up on their feet, clapping and singing along. Other massive hits includes ‘Built This City’, ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ and ‘The Final Countdown’.

Rock Of Ages is a show I won’t forget and it’s rocking! It was loud, fun, naughty and brilliant!

Beauty & The Beast – Script Youth Musical Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beauty & The Beast – Script Youth Musical Theatre Company

Crescent Theatre

Thursday 11th September 2025 – Dress Rehearsal

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

This familiar story, is a magical tale of mystery, sorcery, dreams, sadness, longing, and a just-in-time happy and moving ending.

A young prince, cursed and imprisoned in the form of a beast must find true love before the last rose petal falls to break the spell.

The true love appears in the form of Belle played by Erin Phillips, a wonderful singer with an amazing voice, a village girl who is being pursued by the narcissistic and arrogant hunter Gaston played to perfection by Findlay Laidlaw a strong and powerful vocalist, along with his side-kick LeFou the talented and hilarious Evie Rice, more on Evie later.

Belle refuses Gaston’s advances, yet the other village girls Effie Jobling, Isabelle Round and Darci Rice very amusingly fawn for his attention and affections.

Belle comes face to face with the Beast Samuel McCormac in his castle, whilst looking for her father Maurice, Zachariah Scrivens, who has been captured and selflessly ends up swapping places to gain his freedom. Belle soon befriends a host of wonderful characters in the ‘enchanted’ castle, who hope ‘this is the one to break the spell’. This magnificent group – Lumiere (Kian Haden), Mrs Potts (Chloe Mason), Chip (Oliver Malkin), Cogsworth (Amiee Whillis), Madame De La Grande Bouche (Jess Lewis) and the constantly amusing Babette (Louise Heard) are forever memorable.

Despite a turbulent beginning, a deep friendship develops between Belle and Beast and eventually the curse is broken. The true prince is revealed, Gaston is seen off, and peace, dance and merriment ensue. Therein lies the underlying message of the play: inward characteristics such as kindness should forever be valued over superficial qualities like appearance.

Forgive me for not mentioning by name the many other young actors, but they were all fantastic and the final number including the whole cast was a total delight.

Well done to Louise Farmer for such creative, enthusiastic production and once again ensuring that she got the maximum enthusiasm and effort from the whole cast and Kelly McCormac for the meticulous choreography. A very special mention to Evie Rice who upon finding out the group would be doing Beauty and the Beast jumped at the chance to design and make Belles dresses as part of her finals at BOA, they are superb.

I have always thought that putting one’s trust and faith in children and young people brings out their best. Script Youth Musical Theatre certainly helps in this by promoting positive growth opportunities such as confidence building, creativity, communicating and working with others, as well as enabling the skills of acting, singing and dancing.