A touch of London theatre-land glitter is due to blow into Ellesmere Port this autumn.
West End performer Alex Durrant is swapping the stage for the classroom in September when he joins the Renarta Dance teaching team at West Cheshire College.
Trained at the Royal Ballet and boasting appearances in several musicals including ‘Cats’, Alex will be inviting young hopefuls to join the college’s exciting new dance programme which is set to restart.
The college says Alex joins an already strong teaching team as all the full-time staff on the dance course have had full vocational school training at top schools in the UK. They have also achieved world-wide fame working as professional dancers across the globe.
The ‘inspirational’ new programme will see a number of guest teachers including Royal Ballet principal dancers, commercial choreographers and other West End performers, all gearing up to pass on their knowledge and expertise to aspiring young stars through a series of workshops and performances.
Dream come true
Alex said: “Having previously worked at the college teaching acting, I am really excited about re-joining the team this September to work with its dance department. Being able to combine my two passions – dancing and teaching – is a dream come true for me.
“I’m hoping that I can pass on my experience of the stage to the students. Having been in their shoes, I know what it’s like when you are following your aspirations to perform professionally and how hard it can be.”
Alongside the full extended diploma qualification successful students will also study audition preparation workshops with the options of gaining teaching certificates and academic teaching qualifications.
Sharon Brown, the college’s programme leader for dance and musical theatre, said: “With a purpose built studio and theatre we also enjoy the perks of working with our media, technical theatre, hair and beauty departments helping expand our students knowledge of the type of dance and theatre opportunities that are open to them and giving them a truly rounded experience.”
She added: “We have purposely limited the class size as we believe it enhances individual progression and if anyone is nervous about applying they really shouldn’t be.
“We offer individual support with all aspects of the application process hopefully taking away any concerns they might have plus the course is also free if you are between 16-19 years old.
“What’s especially exciting about this year is that we welcome back Alex. Not only will he bring passion and enthusiasm to the dance programme but also a wealth of knowledge from the stage itself.”
The 25 hours a week programme starts in September. To apply contact Sharon on 01244 656308 or e mail s.brown@west-cheshire.ac.uk.
