Funeral for young dancer, dubbed the new Billy Elliot, who died aged just 14
A CHILD ballet star dubbed “the new Billy Elliot” will be laid to rest today after being found dead at his home aged 14.
Jack Burns was tipped to be a rising star within Scottish Ballet, and had appeared in hit TV show Outlander.
He also appeared in ITV thriller In Plain Sight, with actor Martin Compston, who hails from the same hometown, Greenock, Inverclyde.
Jack trained at the Elite Academy of Dance in Greenock and also at the Royal Conservatoire in Glasgow and drew comparisons with Billy Elliot, a role he auditioned for in 2015.
He was described as an “inspiration” by his teachers, after taking up dancing seven years ago.
He attended St Columba’s School in Kilmacolm,
Inverclyde.
A post on Facebook by the Elite Academy of Dance said: “It is with a very heavy heart that we write this post.
“Tragically as you know we lost our much loved student Jack Burns on Sunday 1st of December.
“Jack was an inspiration to everyone at Elite and touched the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of working and dancing with him since 2012.
“We and all of Jack’s family and friends are naturally completely devastated and at a loss for words and answers.
“Jack’s family wish to let everyone know that his funeral service will be at 10.00am at St Mary’s Church, Patrick Street, Greenock, on Thursday 12th December.
“Karen, Robert and Rory would love if those from his Elite Family that knew and loved Jack as much as they all do wanted to attend.
“They would also take much comfort if students wish to attend in Alba or Elite Hoodies and sit together on Thursday.
“Our studio will be open at 9.00am on Thursday for those wishing to attend.
“All our thoughts and prayers at this time are with Jack’s immediate family and friends but especially with his parents
Karen, Robert and his brother Rory xx.”
The UK Theatre School said: “Last week, we emailed all of our current students’ parents and guardians with the terribly sad news about the passing of one of our exceptionally talented young students.
“Jack’s family have said that anyone who would like to attend his funeral is more than welcome.”