Dance, music and drama erupted from the Academy once again as US music group ‘The Young Americans’ visited as part of their UK schools tour.
Over 100 students from the Academy and other local schools worked alongside the 50, enthusiastic, 17 – 24 year old Americans learning a variety of performing arts skills and techniques including; vocal techniques, dance, comedy improvisation, songwriting and more.
The East Durham students, ranging from from 6 - 16 years old, learned to work together, to respect each other’s strengths, and to discover their own potential – all through the universal language of music and dance.The three-day event culminated in a spectacular showcase performance at Easington Welfare Social Centre last night, take a look at the pictures here.
The Young Americans are a charitable organisation dedicated to the promotion of understanding and goodwill among people throughout the world through music, dance, performance, academic education and cultural interaction. Fnd out more about them here.
Kathryn Ackley, Community Arts Coordinator at The Academy at Shotton Hall who hosted the Young American’s tour said: “We are delighted to have once again had the pleasure of welcoming the Young Americans to Peterlee. The experience has been phenomenal for all the children involved. It is an absolute joy to see students of all ages engaging in performing arts so whole-heartedly and participating in a such a unforgettable experience. Performing arts remains a huge part of who we are at Shotton Hall and having the Young Americans with us is a real highlight in our community calendar."
Rebecca Murray, Year 10 student from The Academy at Shotton Hall said: "Working with the Young Americans has been amazing. They are so energetic and passionate. I took part in show last time the Young Americans visited and loved it so much I had to do it again!"