STARLETS are getting ready for their drama school's last ever showcase performance.
Budding actors and actresses of Mason's Academy Of Performing Arts will perform in their End Of Year Showcase next week at Oasis Academy Wintringham.
It will be the last showcase ever before MAPA is merged with Duck Egg Theatre in April.
Academy principal Anna Mason-Pedder is excited about the merger, which she believes will open up new opportunities for the students.
She said: "It will mean we can secure better funding for theatre and education projects, which is great for the older kids who want to get into professional acting.
"Both companies set up at the same time and have come together for various projects over the past three years. We have built a strong relationship and have helped each other get our names out there."
The students have been working on their performances for 12 weeks and are ready to take to the stage.
The six to ten-year-olds have been tasked with writing, directing and acting their take on Christmas – Who's kidnapped Santa Claus; the 11 to 13-year-olds have had to come up with a different ending to the Wizard Of Oz, while the 14 to 18-year-olds will perform to the theme of I Don't Like Mondays.
Anna said: "It has been difficult, but this project always is. They have all been responsible for writing, directing and performing the themes in just 12 weeks.
"There has been a lot to do in a short space of time and they have all given it a really good go."
Among the performers is Emilia Evison, 7, of Stallingborough. She said: "It has been really good. I have done two shows in front of people and I love being on stage, so I am looking forward to the end of show performance. I want to be an actress one day."
Bradley Braithwaite, 7, will play Santa in the production.
He said: "I can't wait to get on stage.
"I have performed lots of times and I am ready for it."
Find out more
The End Of Year Showcase will take place on Saturday and tickets are free, but seating must be booked in advance. For more information, call Anna on 07512 982792.
