A PERFORMING ARTS company recently moved to Radcliffe has been praised by children and parents alike for bringing the community closer together.

Sparkles Academy of Performing Arts (SAPA), run stage and dance classes aimed at providing fun and educational challenges for youngsters, irrespective or gender, race and ability.

SAPA, run by Stephanie D'Aubney and Paul Whitehead, is a registered Arts Award Centre which gives children the opportunity to gain recognised qualifications in Performing Arts.

After just completing their first term, the company showed off the fruits of their labour last weekend with their showpiece performance at the Radcliffe branch of Asda.

Performances from the hit shows Matilda, The Lion King, Rent and The Sound of Music were all received well.

Ms D'Aubney, SAPA principal, said: “We had a really good turn out and was lucky that the rain held off.

“The children were amazing ambassadors for our academy, they were polite when handing out leaflets, well behaved and really showed off their talents.”

With the second term due to start, SAPA are hosting stage classes and dance workshops every Sunday for youngsters aged three to 12 with new pupils encouraged to give them a try.

Ms D'Aubney said: “We understand that no two children are alike and as such, modules are designed to suit each child's individual personality and needs.

“We have stage classes and dance classes designed to cater for all ages and abilities.

“All children's classes run on a termly basis with each term having a different and diverse module that ends with an in-class performance to showcase for their families.”

Joanne Chapman, whose daughter has just finished her first term at SAPA, said: “I must say Steffi and her team are miracle workers my daughter’s confidence has come on leaps and bounds since she started.”

Another parent from Whitefield, Deborah Fiaz, said: “Everyone is treated equally and each child is given full attention and praise.

“There is a very positive and happy environment where kids can be themselves and enjoy life.”

With the new term about to start, the company have launched their own anti-bullying campaign with this theme being incorporated into the performances.

Pupils will choreograph their own dance – the bullies dance- which will be performed at an end of term play.

Current pupil at SAPA, seven-year-old Miya Farrell, said: “I love it because I enjoy doing the singing, dancing and making new routines and I have met new friends.

Jack Dale, aged 10, said: “The teachers are great and they really support you, we have fun and learn a lot.

“Everyone gets involved and no one is left out.”

The classes take place at Muse Ladies Gym and Wellness Centre at the Albert Works in Radcliffe.

Different classes for all different ages will run from 10.30am to 3.30pm. No experience is needed

For more information about every class www.sapamanchester.co.uk