STAGE stars of the future have been honing their skills at drama workshops held at the Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock.

Aspiring performers were put under the spotlight as they learned scenes, songs and dance routines from such classic musicals as Les Miserables, Grease and Calamity Jane.

The sessions ran last week and are also being held this week too.

Everyone involved gets the chance to stage a show at the end of their programme.

This week’s performance is on Saturday at 1.30pm.

Mark Barclay of Kayos Youth Theatre and professional opera singer Lynn Anderson lead the musical theatre workshops, while a choreographer is also on hand.

Director Mark is delighted with the way the project has gone this year, with the level of interest particularly high amongst the younger age group.

He said: “The classes are open to 13 to 21-year-olds but it was mostly 14-17-year-olds who came along.

“The kids loved it — they’ve got to learn all their lines and all the songs — it’s a lot of hard work.

“They have to put on a 70 minute show after five days of intense preparation.” This is the fourth year the workshops have run, and the second time in the Beacon.

Mark added: “It’s been a great success and great fun.

“Over the last two weeks we had nine students back from last year.” For more information on the programme call Mark on 07807694633.