Gifted students from Stagecoach Performing Arts Bridgend & Cowbridge graced the iconic West End stage of the Shaftesbury Theatre on 26 November, taking part in productions that showcased their performance skills, creativity and courage.

As part of the show, students performed a variety of medleys and renditions of world-famous songs from musicals, films and television shows, and artists. 

Stagecoach's students have been able to grace the stage of this iconic venue with a multitude of amazing performances at Shaftesbury over the past two years since the pandemic. These showcases build on the student's creativity and courage - skills that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Stagecoach Bridgend & Cowbridge Principal Jaye Lawrence said: "We are so thankful as a team to be able to share and celebrate our work with our other Stagecoach Schools and be part of something truly special. All of our students who performed from Stagecoach Bridgend and Cowbridge left the stage feeling accomplished, powerful, thankful, and incredibly proud of what they achieved. They cannot wait for their next performance already!'

In the 35 years since launching, Stagecoach Performing Arts has seen more than one million students unlock their creative potential. Provided with the support and dedication of such an outstanding Principal network, the students learn so much more than how to sing, dance and act. Stagecoach helps young people blossom into well-rounded individuals, ready to embrace life and all of its exciting opportunities. 

The value of performing arts training extends far beyond the opportunities for professional performance features. Recent Stagecoach survey research highlighted the incredible positive impacts the arts have on children's happiness and creativity, with 85% of children citing singing and dancing with their peers as a major contributing factor to their happiness. Almost half (41%) of the nation's parents are concerned that their children are less happy growing up than their generation had been. Encouraging participation in the arts will have undeniable benefits for the wellbeing of both children and parents.

With a network of over 55,000 students and more than 3000 extra-curricular Performing Arts Schools worldwide, Stagecoach aims to make a difference in its students' lives by teaching Creative Courage for Life and many children have gone on to study and work in Performing Arts from blockbuster films to countless roles in local theatre productions. Early Stages classes are available for children aged four to six and Main Stages classes take place for six to 18-year-olds every weekend during term time.

For more information about Stagecoach Performing Arts Bridgend & Cowbridge, visit https://www.stagecoach.co.uk/bridgend or call 01656 300 838.