Shining Stars in the spotlight

Debut stage performance

Members of the adult class at Shining Stars theatre group shone as they took centre stage for their debut performance.

The 20-strong group dazzled in an adapted version of the Wizard of Oz – which included the addition of more of their favourite songs, including the Pink Panther and 500 Miles – following months of rehearsals.

More than 150 people packed out Bank social club in the town to watch the show, and were delighted by the stellar production.

Theatre school founder Katie Slavin-Trower told the Advertiser: “I’m just bursting with pride – they were just amazing and they did so well, especially as the class has only been running for 11 months and this was their first show.

“Everyone was jumping up and down with excitement to take part, and it took off so well; the number of people who came to see the show was incredible.

“We gave everyone medals at the end to say well done, and they were so pleased with them that they came to class on the Friday still wearing them!”

First set up late last year, the adult class is part of Shining Stars’ series of performance workshops for those of all ages with additional support needs, meeting each Friday afternoon at the Charlotte Toal centre in Coatbridge.

Katie added: “The group has gelled so well – they’re all really supportive of each other and have started doing things outside Shining Stars with the new friends that they’ve made.

“We got some of the little ones from Shining Stars to come in and be munchkins; they all helped each other and you could see the love they all have for each other.

“Bank social club were more than happy to help us; we’ve had a lot of things in there before. The performers hadn’t been in the hall to practice but just did so well on the day.”

Shining Stars’ adult group is already now rehearsing for their next performance, entitled A Night at the Movies, with members choosing and planning their favourite soundtracks to perform.

Photographs courtesy of John Irons.

Everyone was jumping up and down with excitement

Delightful debut The group were all shining stars

Ovation The main cast take a welldeserved bow

Wizard performance The show was a big hit