Young high fliers ready to perform

PERFORMERS will rise to great heights in a show given by students of a performing arts organisation.

Artemis College’s Greatest Showcase will take place this weekend, and feature senior students from its musical theatre, dance and college classes.

It includes items from Medusa Theatre Company, Artemis College, Senior Hip Hop, and Senior Cheer and Stunt groups.

Founder and CEO of Artemis College Nikki Robinson said the audience will see an array of talent on stage, including cheerleaders.

“People may think of pompoms, but UK cheerleading is on a different level,” she explained. “Our stunt teams are athletes, competing in an activity that has just been recognised as an Olympic sport.

“It’s a mixture of gymnastics and dance, where performers are supported above everyone’s heads, two or three tiers high.

“The flier, the highest athlete, gets thrown up 25 feet in the air, although that isn’t quite possible during this performance, as there isn’t enough headroom in the theatre.”

The college’s senior hip hop students will also perform, along with members of Saturday group, Medusa, who will sing songs from the musical Wicked.

“Our hip hop students are like dancing machines, “continues Ms Robinson. “They’re strong and powerful to watch.

“Our students train to be professional performers.

“Most have worked professionally by the time they leave us, and go on to careers as performers or choreographers.

“They are all very excited to be able to showcase their work.

“It’s a real community effort with everyone contributing.”

As well as showcasing the talents of the senior performers, the performance aims to raise funds for the ongoing work of Artemis.

Donations, grants and events enable the college to keep costs down for pupils as part of its mission to make performing arts training accessible to all.

To help with fundraising there will be pre-show activities, including games, snacks and drinks, and a raffle.

The event takes place at Holme Grange School theatre, Wokingham, on Saturday, March 11, at 3pm and 6pm.