MORE drama, theatre and dance!

Kathy Anderson, Oonah McEwan, Sarah McCulloch and Niaomh Rodgers.

The buzz at their new studios at Mill House on Railway Road was palpable, as MORE’s rapidly expanding body of pupils and parents celebrated with teachers and directors in their extensive new suite of dance, musical theatre and drama studios.

With talented young musician Dave Mullan filling the place with contemporary song and tuneful guitar, the evening zipped along with a lively soundtrack as guests enjoyed exploring the new rooms and facilities.

It seems only a short time ago that drama teachers Oonah McEwan and Kathy Anderson started a small drama school at the Riverside Theatre. They now offer a substantial menu of drama, dance and musical theatre singing classes for ages four to 18, plus a Mother and Baby Dance Class, Movement Makers Class for children with Special Needs and Adult Dance Fitness Classes as well as being the only local school to offer GCSE Dance.

Dave Mullan, Niaomh Rodgers, Sarah McCulloch, Oonah McEwan, and Kathy Anderson.

Graded exams are offered in all disciplines, taking advantage of Oonah and Kathy’s combined teaching experience of more than four decades.

Niaomh Rodgers, MORE’s Conservatoire-trained singing teacher and Sarah McCulloch, a dance graduate of Northumbria University, make up the impressive teaching team. They are thrilled with the newly refurbished premises and were clearly taken aback by the huge turnout at the relaunch party.

“Thanks to all the pupils and parents, old and new, who came to celebrate with us,” said Oonah. “We weren’t expecting this kind of reaction and we can’t wait to get started with our classes. With such lovely spaces for performing arts here at Mill House, there are exciting times ahead!”

“The turnout is amazing,” added Kathy. “And everyone has been so lovely – we’re overwhelmed, thank you.”

Niaomh Rodgers with some children at the launch evening.

Classes start the week commencing Monday 12 September and although many classes are full, there’s still time to register. Whether it’s drama, singing, dance or all three, go to www.moredrama.co.uk for more information and to download forms.

With passionate, experienced teachers and such exciting new premises, MORE Performing Arts School looks set to have a fantastic future with a lot more to come.