YOUNG people interested in musical theatre will soon have the opportunity to develop their talents without moving from Ryedale.

Norton College and Kirkham Henry Performing Arts are offering a new BTEC musical theatre course from September, which will supplement the existing A-level options for sixth formers.

The aim is to meet the needs of the many local students who have an interest and involvement in musical theatre and who presently have to travel to York or Scarborough.

The head of performing arts at Norton College, Dr Sue Hawes, and Angela Kirkham, artistic director of Kirkham Henry Performing Arts Centre, based in Malton, are working together to integrate the centre’s dance aspect alongside the college’s drama and music departments, so that all components for the new course will be in place the start of the autumn term.

Angela said: “Both Norton College and Kirkham Henry has had students go on to leading performing arts colleges, so it seems illogical for pupils to have to travel.

“Moving colleges can be extremely stressful and this new BTEC course will be ideally suited for aspiring performers within the locality.

“Dance teachers with unrivalled experience and expertise will join the Norton College team of experts to provide comprehensive training along side A-levels for any student enrolling as a sixth former at the college.

“This is a brilliant opportunity for young people with a flair and talent in musical theatre to work with excellent practitioners who have a passion for enabling students to progress to the top colleges and universities to study performing arts.

“This partnership will enable students to study musical theatre alongside other A-level and BTEC subjects, giving them a broad and balanced education for their future aspirations.

“It is because of the strength of both Norton College and Kirkham Henry, as performing arts providers, that we feel we can offer this course.”

Anyone interested in the course can attend an information evening at Norton College sixth form performing arts studio, on Monday, March 5, at 7pm.

All course tutors, Angela Kirkham and Dr Hawes will be available in the evening to answer any questions.

Anyone who would like to attend is asked to email gmc@norton college.net or phone 01653 693296 to confirm their seats for the evening.