Kids sparkle in dazzling stage show (From Penarth Times)

Kids sparkle in dazzling stage show

TALENTED Penarth children dazzled an audience at the Paget Rooms in their annual dance production in July.

Young performers from the Batho-Davies Theatre Arts School's UpStagers presented 'Showtime' at the Paget Rooms.

Under the powerful direction of Pat Batho-Davies, children proved they had originality, showmanship, versatility and quality.

From the tiny tots to the sophisticated seniors, from the drama group's Fame to the singing students' A Chorus Line, it was engaging entertainment.

The audience was treated to inventive acting scenes, with song and dance solos, duets and more.

The youngsters gave striking performances, sincere, imaginative, creative and confident.

Outstanding staging skills have, over the past 15 years, always been synonymous with 'Showtime'. This year was no exception. Brilliantly colourful costumes enhancing dynamic choreography and impressive technique brought resounding cheers.

Hooray for Hollywood, with the glamour, comedy and pathos of the silver screen and featuring juniors and seniors in movie star roles, was a delight to the eye.

Moulin Rouge, vibrantly performed by the senior cabaret dancers, was raunchy and vivid and brought the house down.

Don't put your daughter on the stage was mischievously ironic and featuring music from Gypsy, proved to be a superb rendering of all that is enticing about showbusiness.

Town mayor Cllr David Clapham, as a parent, praised the hard work and commitment of pupils, parents and teachers.

He said: "It's inspiring to see such glowing confidence from these youngsters. Once again we have witnessed a brilliant 'Showtime'."

Award-winning choreographer Irving Davies, the school's patron, took time out from his West End theatre commitments to support the young local performers.

He described the production as an absolute triumph.

UpStagers dance, drama and singing classes resume in September. The school will then be accepting pupils. For details phone 2053 0913 or 01446 732578.