Arts school celebrates hat-trick of top awards

A LOCAL performing arts schools has scooped three top awards.

Stagecoach Bridgend and Cowbridge won the gongs at Stagecoach’s annual charity gala.

Student Ben, from Bridgend, was celebrated for his exceptional acting skills, winning the Outstanding Actor (Aged 15+) Award.

Budding young musician Cerys was awarded the Fanfare Composer Award.

Meanwhile, local dance teacher Jaye Lawrence was recognised for her dedication to the performing arts as she was awarded the Outstanding Dance Teacher Award.

The flagship event of Stagecoach, a network of extra-curricular performing arts schools for children, the charity gala welcomed children from across the country. It featured performances from schools, selected from regional and London showcases, alongside special guest appearances.

Held at London’s iconic Shaftesbury Theatre, the awards marked the end of an exciting year for the network, which has celebrated its 30th anniversary with a jam-packed schedule of events, including a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest number of simultaneous performances of one show.

Proceeds from the gala went to Stagecoach’s charity partner YoungMinds, which is dedicated to fighting for a future where all children get the best possible mental health support.

Sarah Kelly, CEO of Stagecoach Performing Arts, said: “Our annual charity gala celebrates the hard work we do to inspire students in accessing the skills which will equip them as adults.

“We believe the awards ceremony and our partnership with YoungMinds has inspired our students to feel empowered and supported, as is fitting for such a landmark year. YoungMinds’ mission to make sure all young people have the resilience to overcome life’s challenges sits alongside our own aim to instil our students with creative courage for life.”