5 days ago
Dance school celebrates 20th show featuring favourite numbers from past two decades
A dance school based near Banbury recently celebrated its 20th show, featuring favourite numbers from the past two decades.
Dance and Drama Unlimited, based in Marston St Lawrence, near Banbury, has been running for 22 years, teaching students from the age of three.
The school is ran by Angela Grigelis, who this year decided to celebrate the 20th show by performing the school's favourite numbers from the past two decades.
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There were 'too many' favourites, said Mrs Grigelis, meaning next year's show will be 'for the numbers that got away'.
Reflecting on the shows, which took place on June 28 and 29, Mrs Grigelis said: "Our show was very emotional as everyone took on this special year with skill and professionalism.
"I was very proud."
The shows were performed at Blessed George Napier in Banbury, in a theatre space which was built memory of Rachel Smith, who Mrs Grigelis worked with alongside Tim Wilson on school musicals.
"Our show was fabulous and I am sure Rachel would have approved," said Mrs Grigelis.
"I have an excellent technical team - including my husband who is a musician on The Lion King - and fantastic backstage crew helping.
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"Our ethos is to care, support and encourage personality, strength, agility in a friendly environment to cope with outside pressures and difficulties.
"We pride ourselves on a 'safe space' to express yourself.
"We are a family.
"Over the past 20 years many students now have careers performing in shows in the West End, cruises, bands, the circus, beep boxing, wing walking, silks, opera, and stage managing.
"This shows our inclusion and diversity and also proving you don't need to follow a strict exam regime to be successful in your chosen career."
Jazz, tap, contemporary, and ballet numbers were performed by dancers of all ages in the show.
Drama performances, directed by Sally Easterbrook, also featured, and Mrs Grigelis' son, Sandy, and alumna Kathryn Tindall sang.
Mrs Grigelis set up Dance and Drama Unlimited in April 2003 after performing professionally for many years as a dancer in London's West End and Europe.
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"I wanted to share my experience in my local area and give my students a chance to feel what it's like in the world of show business," she added.
Dance and Drama Unlimited classes are taught in Marston St Lawrence Village Hall between September and June.
The school has previously performed shows at The Mill Theatre in Banbury and The Great Hall, Bloxham.
To find out more about Dance and Drama Unlimited, visit:
