A FORMER actress is taking on a new role as she opens up her own business training young performers.

Shelley Norton from Penarth has launched Shelley Norton Stage School and Management to prepare young people for work in TV and film.

Based in its own venue The Talent Shack on Penarth Road, it features a large theatre space and teaching room as well as offices and a costume hire department.

After five years as director of The Big Talent School and Agency, Ms Norton decided she wanted her own theatre/rehearsal space and a base for the business putting everything under one roof.

She said: "I can’t quite believe it has become a reality – it is very exciting."

Ms Norton worked as an actress for ten years, under the name Shelley Miranda Barrett. She is best known as Mandy in BBC Wales' 90s sit com Satellite City.

Ms Norton lives in Penarth with her two children who attend Albert Primary and Stanwell school.

Shelley Norton Stage School offers a range of classes for ages three to adult in musical theatre, drama, acting technique, as well as workshops in how to deal with the industry, how to audition and lots of information and tips essential for any young person going into the world of acting or performing.

Shelley Norton Management is a full-time talent agency representing young and established actors for professional work in TV, film and theatre.

Ms Norton said: "Whether its extra work or featured roles in drama series or film or commercial work, the approach is always the same – professional and personal.

The agency's first musical theatre production is Little Mermaid Junior at the Paget Rooms from June 1 to June 5.

It is looking for a cast aged seven to 19-years-old and auditions are due to take place from January17 to January 24.

Saturday classes start on January 16 with mini-musical theatre for under sevens in the morning, followed by musical theatre school for seven to 16-year-olds with the weekday timetable starting the following week.

All the teachers at The Talent Shack are professional performers and experienced teachers.

Classes are designed to build confidence and social skills while learning what it takes to become a fully rounded performer or versatile actor.

Ms Norton added: "We offer professional training for the young performer in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

"Join the agency for the full experience, to go to auditions, and maybe get on TV.

"We are there every step of the way.

"Our clients include Justin Davies who plays Ben in Stella.

"Justin is currently studying at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama with the fifth series of Stella about to go to air and has an exciting future ahead of him."

The space is available for hires, parties, classes, rehearsals and meetings.

To apply for an audition pack, e-mail hello@shelleynorton.co.uk