A new drama school for children will open in Ripon this weekend.
Ripon Theatre Arts has been created by Rosie Riley, an actor and graduate of the London musical theatre school, The MTA.
The school, which is for children aged six to 12, will will take place in Ripon Amateur Operatic Society’s hall on Allhallowgate on Saturdays.
Ms Riley said recent months had been “difficult” for young people and hoped her classes would help them build confidence, have fun and make friends. She added:
“We have strictly followed the government guidelines for this. However, I believe it’s really important to help the next generation get back on their feet. It’s been so difficult for all the young people being in lockdown and if we can help with any personal development, I think we have done our job of helping them get back on track with their life.
“I have been itching for a challenging project to get my teeth into and when schools were able to open, we jumped at the opportunity. We were also aware, due to another school closing, that a lot of children now had no Saturday club. I didn’t want this to happen, so here we are!”
Ms Riley has over three years of teaching experience and has also performed in several off-West End theatres, as well as appearing in the Channel 4 show The Last Leg.
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Children will have to queue to maintain social distancing when they enter the building and wear face coverings while performing. Each child will be given a 2m square space to use.
To get in touch with Ms Riley, email [email protected].