Little Gems drama group develops youngsters' confidence (From Gazette & Herald)

Little Gems drama group develops youngsters' confidence

11:13am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News By Karen Darley

A Norton-based drama group is aiming to develop young people’s confidence while learning and having fun.

Little Gems was set up by Gemma Williams in 2006 with just eight members.

Based at Norton College, Gemma said she wanted to train to become a drama teacher and needed some experience working with youngsters.

“I also noticed that there wasn’t really a group like this in the area which provided just drama lessons,” she said.

“Three of the girls who started with me in that first session have just left to go to university – two of whom are studying performance and musical theatre.”

Gemma said there was now about 70 members learning different aspects of drama and exploring different styles of theatre.

“I try to give the youngsters a broad range of techniques and experiences within the classes to develop social skills and interaction,” she said.

“But most importantly we have fun, and lots of it. I am very passionate about my subject and I like to watch young people achieve and excel within performance within their own ability.”

Gemma said Little Gem’s next project was their annual panto where all 70 members take part.

“I like to think that we develop confidence within the young people and provide an environment where they can feel comfortable enough to push the boundaries and step out of their comfort zone to develop on that confidence,” she said.

“We are also very keen on raising money for charity.

“We have recently raised £1,500 for Louby’s Lifeline, £200 for Children in Need and £100 for a girl to go and work out in India with midwives.

“We are very proud of our charity work as a group and are very passionate to raise more for charity.”

Little Gems is open to six-18-year-olds and the classes are held Monday, 5pm-7pm, 11-18 years; Wednesday, 5pm-7pm, and Thursday, 5pm-6pm, for six-10 years.

For more information phone Gemma or Mark on 07403 269975.